CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)Mobile DevicesMedium
A technician notices that a laptop's battery has become visibly swollen, causing the trackpad to bulge upward. Which of the following is the SAFEST immediate action to take?
- ACharge the battery fully to stabilize its internal chemistry
- BContinue using the laptop until a replacement battery arrives
- CPuncture the battery to release trapped gas before removal
- DPower off the laptop and avoid puncturing or bending the battery during removal
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Power off the laptop and avoid puncturing or bending the battery during removal
A swollen lithium-based battery indicates internal gas buildup and possible chemical breakdown; the safest procedure is to power off the device immediately and handle the battery carefully, avoiding punctures or bending which can cause fire or chemical leakage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Charging a swollen battery increases the risk of fire or explosion.
- B. Continuing to use a swollen battery risks fire or physical damage.
- C. Puncturing a swollen battery is extremely dangerous and can cause fire.
Swollen Battery Safety
A swollen lithium battery indicates internal gas buildup and should be handled with extreme care, powered off, and never punctured or bent.
- Never puncture or bend a swollen battery
- Power off device immediately
- Dispose of swollen batteries per hazardous material guidelines
Memory trick: Swollen battery = sleeping bomb; power off, don't poke it.