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A dry cell has an electrolyte and a pair of electrodes. Even if the cell is not connected in a circuit, electrons /ions travel inside the electrolyte. Sometimes the rusted batteries cause leakages of current.  Due to the activity of electrons through the internal parts of the batteries,  the charges collected /stored in a new cell slowly get discharged. The cathodes get stacked with electrons..

so battery loses potential difference between two ends , gradually.