Different cells of different chemical make up can accept charges of varying rates.
NiCd and Nimh are quite happy taking multiples of their 'C' rate as long as the peak charge voltages or temperatures are not exceeded, time to charge is reduced in relation to that charge rate.
Li-po cells are being produced that can accept higher than the 1'C' rate - but generally to be safe, 1 'C' is about it - for the present
'C' is the rated current capabiility of the cell i.e., 5000mAh = 5Ah therefore charge rate is 5 Amps