Lithium-ion batteries
Lithium, the lightest metal on Earth, delivers the highest electrochemical potential of any metal. To improve stability and safety, Lithium-ion batteries typically use an oxide compound of the metal in the positive electrode (oxide type is dependent on cell manufacturer; i.e., a lithium cobalt oxide in Panasonic brand cells.) As the battery charges, the lithium in the positive electrode is ionized and moves through the internal battery layers to the negative electrode. During discharge the ions travel back to the positive electrode and return to the original compound.

Because of their lightness and high energy density, Lithium-ion batteries are ideal for portable electronic devices, such as notebook computers, data acquisition, medical instruments, cameras, etc. In addition, Lithium-ion batteries have no memory effect and do not use poisonous metals, such as lead, mercury or cadmium. Combined with safety and communications circuitry, Lithium-ion batteries are today's best solution for technology on the move.