Information: Why do lithium batteries explode?

[BandOfBrothers]

Source : BBC News. 

Link > Why do lithium batteries explode?

Excerpt from the Link...

"Samsung's decision to halt sales of the new Galaxy Note 7 because of reports of battery explosions is an extraordinary step for a tech giant to take.

The firm said it had identified a battery issue but did not elaborate.
But if a lithium-ion battery cell charges too quickly or a tiny manufacturing error slips through the net it can result in a short circuit - which can lead to fire."

My Thoughts. 

With all the coverage concerning the recent issues connected to the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 I thought this piece from BBC Tech may go some to explain what maybe happening. 

[hrym]

Thew simple answer is, of course, "because Lithium is about as stable as Potassium".   The advice to never ignore a swollen battery is a good one, though.   And beware of suspiciously cheap ones, too.   I would add "stick to OEM", but equipment manufacturers don't make batteries and buy them in from a variety of sources.   Even big names can (literally) get their fingers burnt.