Meters and troubleshootingQuestion 773 of 1506

What is the best way to check the condition of a battery?

  1. Measure the voltage while it supplies a substantial load current
  2. Measure the weight and the size of the battery
  3. Measure the voltage with the terminals open
  4. Measure the resistance of the case with an ohmmeter and compare to new
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Correct answer: Measure the voltage while it supplies a substantial load current

A weak battery can show a good no-load voltage even when its internal resistance is high.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits I: DC (Kuphaldt), 11.3: Battery Ratings

Practice meters and troubleshooting

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026