What occurs when a voltaic cell is connected to a load?

When a voltaic cell is connected to a load, it discharges chemical energy as electrical energy. This process occurs because the chemical reactions within the cell release electrons that flow through the external circuit, providing power to the load. The conversion of stored chemical energy into electrical energy is the fundamental principle behind how voltaic cells, or batteries, operate.

In this situation, the voltaic cell undergoes redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions, allowing it to interact with the load by providing a continuous flow of current until the chemical reactants are depleted. This is essential for powering devices that require electricity.

The other options misrepresent the behavior of a voltaic cell. Charges with no energy loss would imply perpetual efficiency, which is not achievable due to inherent resistive losses. Converting electrical energy back into chemical energy typically occurs during charging, rather than discharging. Stabilizing voltage fluctuations is not a primary function of a voltaic cell itself, as cells generate a specific voltage based on their chemistry and design, and this function is more relevant to power supply systems or voltage regulation devices.