Answer :
Final answer:
The cathode of each cell in a lead-acid automotive battery is composed of lead(IV) oxide (PbO₂) and is part of a metal grid structure.
Explanation:
The composition of the cathode in each cell of a lead-acid automotive battery is lead(IV) oxide (PbO₂), which is packed in a metal grid. During the operation of the battery, a series of electrochemical reactions occur at the cathode involving PbO₂ and the electrolyte, which is an aqueous solution of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). The battery typically consists of multiple such cells connected in series, with each cell contributing approximately 2 volts to the overall voltage, which for a standard car battery would amount to 12 volts with six cells in series.