Lead-acid battery myths make lead-acid batteries on of the most misunderstood products of our time. These power sources are used so extensively that 21st Century life would not be possible without them. Indeed, most of us benefit from lead-acid batteries every day but we know little about these workhorses.

Lead-acid batteries come in many different sizes and operate hidden from view. Their workings are a bit confusing; they're bought because they're needed, not wanted; and they are often taken completely for granted until they die.

More important, few of us know that when lead-acid batteries reach the end of their lives, they are recycled at a higher rate than any other consumer product.

If lead-acid batteries are misunderstood, their primary component, lead, is feared and maligned and leads to many lead-acid battery myths. Excess lead exposure from leaded gasoline, lead-based paint, improperly glazed pottery and contaminated soil can constitute a serious health risk, particularly to young children. However, advances in lead-related monitoring, production and safety have significantly reduced these risks in recent decades and average blood lead levels, particularly in the developed world, have fallen dramatically.