ARRL Technician Practice Exam

A 12-volt storage battery indeed poses a safety hazard if the terminals are shorted. When the terminals are shorted, it creates a direct path for the current to flow without any load, which can lead to excessive current flow. This high current can generate a significant amount of heat, which might cause burns to anyone handling the battery or could ignite flammable materials nearby, resulting in a fire. In some cases, particularly if the battery is sealed or a lead-acid type, a short circuit could generate enough heat to cause the battery casing to rupture or even lead to an explosion due to rapid gas buildup from the electrolyte.

The other statements do not accurately represent the properties of a 12-volt storage battery. While it is true that batteries can hold charge, they will self-discharge over time and may not always maintain their charge indefinitely. Batteries are also affected by temperature changes, which can impact their performance and lifespan. Lastly, they cannot be stored indefinitely without taking proper precautions, such as regular recharging and ensuring they are kept in a suitable environment.