Matchstick
Q. Matchstick head contains which of the following components?
1) Powdered Glass
2) Red Phosphorus
3) Potassium Nitrate- Published on 15 Apr 16a. 2, 3
b. 1, 3
c. 1, 2
d. All of the above
ANSWER: 1, 2
- Matchstick head contains tiny amount of potassium chlorate, antimony sulphide, red phosphorous and powdered glass.
- The powdered glass inside the head provides the friction that aids striking but also helps bind the materials and creates an even burn.
- When matchsticks are struck, the friction generated ignites the red phosphorus.
- Few additional materials - Ammonium phosphate, for instance, is impregnated into the matchstick wood to stifle afterglow when the flame dies. The stick is bathed in hot paraffin wax, which ensures the flame burns down past the head to the stick. Animal glue in the head has a dual purpose: It binds the materials and serves as extra fuel.
- The roles of Igniter, a fuel and an oxidizer in a match are played by red phosphorus, sulfur and potassium chlorate, respectively.
