How is a battery generally depicted in electrical schematics?

In electrical schematics, a battery is generally depicted as two lines, one longer than the other. The longer line represents the positive terminal of the battery, while the shorter line represents the negative terminal. This representation is effective because it visually conveys the polarity of the battery, which is crucial for understanding how the circuit will operate.

The distinct lengths of the lines help to quickly identify the battery's terminals, ensuring that connections in the circuitry are made correctly. This depiction also aligns with industry standards, making it recognizable to engineers and technicians working with electronic systems. Having a consistent symbol for batteries aids in clarity and reduces the chances of errors in wiring and schematic interpretation.