Question

The striking surface of a matchbox is made of sand, powdered glass and red phosphorus. A match head contains powdered glass, potassium chlorate, sulphur and gelatin. When the match head is struck against the matchbox, the sand and powdered glass cause friction and heat, and this converts some of the red phosphorus to white phosphorus. This chemical is so volatile that it ignites in the air. The heat also breaks down the potassium chlorate in the match head, which releases oxygen. The oxygen combines with sulphur and keeps the flame burning. The gelatin acts as glue to keep everything together in the match head, and also provides extra fuel. What are the energy changes that occur in these reactions ?

Accepted Answer

The striking surface of the matchbox contains red phosphorus and the head of the matchstick contains potassium chlorate. So when the matchstick is rubbed on the matchbox, some of the red phosphorus is converted to white phosphorus, a chemical i.e. so volatile that it ignites in air. A matchstick has a lot of chemical energy stored in it. When the match is struck, it burns and the chemical energy in it produces heat energy and light energy.

Gary Horner Solutions for Chapter: Energy, Exercise 2: Exercise 2

Gary Horner Chemistry Solutions for Exercise - Gary Horner Solutions for Chapter: Energy, Exercise 2: Exercise 2

Questions from Gary Horner Solutions for Chapter: Energy, Exercise 2: Exercise 2 with Hints & Solutions

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