Non-rechargeable (primary) batteries are single-use electrochemical storage cells which produce electrical energy by means of a non-reversible chemical reaction, necessitating their disposal after once being depleted. Typically, they are capable of storing a larger amount of energy in a given volume than comparable rechargeable (secondary) cells, while also exhibiting significantly improved long-term storage qualities and lower unit cost. While the term "battery" is most properly reserved for an assembly of multiple individual cells, its use in reference to a single cell is common.