Not unless it is plugged into a wall outlet.
No
get a new laptop
it does from experience....
Laptop batteries generally have a lifespan of 3-4 years depending on usage.
the computer will shut off entirely
The battery is dead.
Either a dead battery - or a faulty power supply.
As there are numerous problems that could cause this symptom, everywhere from a dead battery to a logic board failure, a single answer to this question is not possible.
Dead battery?
Battery could be dead , or a poor cable connection to the battery
Yes, you can. Most laptop will work fine without its battery, some of them will not. Dell is usually of those which do not have such problems.
Usually your computer doesn't start or you can see it wherever the battery charging icon if the battery is charging or not.