Why do some types of batteries stay fresh longer if they are kept in a refrigerator? a. cooling increases the surface area inside the batteries. b. cooling increases the concentration of the reactants in the batteries. c. cooling lowers the rate of the chemical reaction in the batteries. d. cooling is similar to adding a catalyst to the batteries.

Cooling lowers the rate of the chemical reaction in the batteries.

Explanation:

When a battery is not in use and it may undergo some chemical changes which leads to decrease in its life (shelf life).

For example in case of Zinc battery, the zinc undergoes reaction with ammonia which deteriorate the cell or battery.

Now if we keep the battery in a cool place like refrigerator, the rate of chemical reaction will decrease (the rate of reaction generally decreases with decrease in temperature). Thus the battery stay fresh longer.

increased stability in the completion of fluorine's outer shell.