Final answer:
A discharged lithium battery can catch fire due to unstable components, especially under certain circumstances such as short-circuiting or overheating. Proper handling and disposal are key to preventing fires.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, a discharged lithium battery can catch fire, although it is less likely than a charged one. Lithium batteries, whether they are disposable primary lithium batteries or rechargeable lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, contain flammable electrolytes and lithium metal which can become unstable under certain circumstances. If a lithium battery is short-circuited, overheated, punctured or improperly disposed of, it can ignite even when discharged. Additionally, if a rechargeable lithium battery is charged with an incorrect charger or damaged, it can also pose a fire risk. Therefore, it is crucial to handle all types of lithium batteries with care and follow proper disposal guidelines to prevent fire incidents.