What condition is created by sediment in a storage battery?

Sediment in a storage battery primarily leads to short circuits. This happens because the sediment, which can consist of lead sulfate crystals and other materials resulting from the battery's electrochemical reactions, can settle at the bottom of the battery or deposit on the plates. When sediment accumulates significantly, it can bridge the gap between the battery plates or create a pathway for current that bypasses the normal functional areas of the battery. This unintentional connection can disrupt the intended flow of electricity, leading to a short circuit. A short circuit not only reduces the efficiency of the battery but can also cause overheating and damage, resulting in potential failure of the battery.

In contrast, sediment does not contribute to increased power output, extended battery life, or higher voltage stability; these conditions are typically dependent on proper maintenance and operational conditions within the battery.