Lithium-ion batteries, developed by Japanese chemist Akira Yoshino in the 1980s, have transformed how we use and store energy. These rechargeable batteries work by moving lithium ions between electrodes during charging and discharging.

They're popular because they pack a lot of energy, don't lose capacity over time, and have a low self-discharge rate. From mobile phones and laptops to electric cars and renewable energy systems, lithium-ion batteries are key to making our world more portable and sustainable.