Which characteristic differentiates alkaline batteries from carbon-zinc batteries?

Alkaline batteries are known for their longer shelf life compared to carbon-zinc batteries. This extended shelf life is primarily due to the chemical composition of alkaline batteries, which allows them to maintain their charge for a significantly longer period, often up to 5 to 10 years when stored properly. In contrast, carbon-zinc batteries tend to have a shorter shelf life, typically around 1 to 3 years, as they tend to self-discharge more rapidly over time.

The chemical reactions in alkaline batteries are more stable, which contributes to this characteristic. This makes alkaline batteries an ideal choice for low-drain devices that may not be used frequently, as they will retain power longer when not in use.