When connecting a battery, the correct order is to connect the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. Conversely, when disconnecting a battery, you should always disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal. This order helps reduce the chance of accidental short circuits or sparks. Connecting the positive terminal first ensures that the circuit is only completed once the negative terminal is connected, which is safer. Disconnecting the negative first avoids the risk of shorting the battery to the car's frame or other metal parts. To summarize:
- When connecting: positive terminal first, then negative terminal
- When disconnecting: negative terminal first, then positive terminal
This procedure applies especially in vehicle batteries but is recommended for most battery connections to prevent damage or accidents.