would a half cracked battery terminal prevent the alternator from charging the battery,or even half prevent it? I suppose if a fully cracked one would prevent it entirely, then a half cracked one is at least going to prevent it halfly! can anyone confirm or apply any logic to my inane ramblings

Even if it is half cracked I would replace it as soon as possible. It can crack the rest of the way and then you will really have a problem.

I always follow this rule... "If it is broke, fix it." If you don't, it most likely will just get worse and then the little problem can become a big issue. replace it! :)

As for the alternator charge, it could potentially lead to it from just a lack of a good connection, as can corrosion.

Much like a lose connection from the terminal can make some believe their battery is dead, when in fact their terminal is just loose; and periodically tightened or squeezed when "Jumper Cables" are placed upon it.

I agree, cracked battery terminals can cause a few problems and give potential to more money in cost of fixing the items corrosion effects as well.

Cracked Battery terminals can lead to allowing gas to vent, which would then turn into the corrosion and eat your terminals more or less. Also snapping off if the crack is more a split, hitting a pot~hole or something like it that gives the battery a nice jolt could lead to the post snapping off. Unlikely but still a slight possibility.

Battery Terminals can be replaced though, if perhaps you have an automotive place or something like that near by, though I have no clue on a average cost of it, could be like shoes in some areas... cheaper to buy some new ones then fix an old one.