Is lighting a match a chemical or physical change?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether the process of lighting a match involves a chemical change or a physical change. This involves understanding the nature of the reactions that occur when a match is struck.
Answer
Chemical change
Lighting a match is a chemical change.
Answer for screen readers
Lighting a match is a chemical change.
More Information
When lighting a match, the heat generated by friction initiates a chemical reaction involving potassium chlorate and red phosphorus, eventually causing the match to ignite and combust. This is indicative of a chemical change as new substances are formed.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming that the initial act of striking the match is purely physical; while friction is a physical process, the resulting combustion is a chemical change because it creates new substances.
Sources
- Why is lighting a match a chemical reaction? - Study.com - homework.study.com
- Is lighting a match a chemical reaction? | CK-12 Foundation - ck12.org
- Lighting a match a physical change or chemical change? - Answers - answers.com
