system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
ELI5: Why are more common batteries non-rechargeable? What about them makes them more popular then rechargeable batteries?

From my limited understanding of electronics, the simplest forms of batteries (including the ones you can make in your second grade physics kit from penny's and cloth) are meant to be changed and discharged. What makes common disposable batteries different/advantageous?
gpt
Batteries convert chemical potential into electrical current. With rechargeable batteries, if you reverse the flow of current then the chemical reaction also runs in reverse. Alkaline batteries (the most common non-rechargeables) don't fully reverse their chemical reaction when you try to charge them. This makes them significantly less efficient to charge, which causes heat and can cause buildup of hydrogen gas. Since most batteries are sealed, a build of hydrogen gas can caused them to rupture and explode.

The reason they're more popular than rechargeables is that they are significantly less expensive. Also, they're better at holding their charge when not in use. This is important for very low usage scenarios like your remote control.