Investigating Cells & Batteries
 
Caution: DO NOT DISASSEMBLE BATTERIES AT HOME. Some battery chemicals and components may be hazardous to your health.  Another hazard involved in the disassembly of batteries or cells is the danger of excess heat or explosion caused by short circuiting.   All of the cells and batteries shown below were completely discharged before they were opened.  Of course, when working with sheet metal, there is always a danger of being cut by sharp pieces of metal or plastic.
6v batteries
lantern battery #1 - 4 cells in series - very old and corroded, soldered connections, glued together. lantern battery #2 - 4 alkaline cells in series - pressure contact connections, no glue - cells encased in stainless steel. lantern battery #3a - 4 cells in series - soldered connectors - plastic dividers 6v #3b
TV remote control battery - 4 cells in series, welded connections, cells encased in plastic lantern battery #4 (large) - two 4-cell batteries wired in parallel, soldered connections, glued together lantern battery #4b - another view lantern battery #4c - closeup view of series/parallel wiring
single cell from a 6v lantern battery showing carbon rod, manganese dioxide & zinc case A lightweight battery with high cardboard content. Another view of the lightweight 6v lantern battery with one of the cells removed.

9v batteries
6 cells - stacked & wrapped 6 cells cylindrical cells - pressure contact plates for series connection closer view of series connection plates 6 cells in series - welded connections

For detailed information about batteries of various types check out this Britannica.com article.