Why is sulfur used in matches

The match head mass is foamed with air to optimize the burning behavior of the match head. Silicates are added to the match head, which on the one hand, dampen the reaction somewhat and thus prolong the burning time, and on the other hand, form a slag that prevents the ash from being separated from the match. In the third phase, the fire spreads to the paraffine and then to the wood. In the process, the wood chars and forms charcoal. It also comes from the wood in the matchstick.

When it comes to oxygen, the match has a secret supply. When it gets hot, it releases a lot of extra oxygen and heat. This makes the match head burn quickly and strongly. When you put it all together — the heat, the fuel, and the oxygen — you get a flame! And amazingly, all this chemistry happens in a fraction of a second.

So please remember — any kind of match can be very, very dangerous, so never use them without adult supervision. Read more: Curious Kids: is water blue or is it just reflecting off the sky? Hello, curious kids! Ask an adult to send your question to curiouskids theconversation. When you strike the match on the special surface on the side of the box, however, the heat of friction converts a small amount of the red phosphorous in the surface to white phosphorous, which spontaneously ignites.

The resultant spark starts the potassium chlorate oxidation reaction, and the heat from that reaction ignites the sulfur in the match head. Safety match heads also contain glass powder and a binder. Chris Deziel holds a Bachelor's degree in physics and a Master's degree in Humanities, He has taught science, math and English at the university level, both in his native Canada and in Japan. He began writing online in , offering information in scientific, cultural and practical topics.

His writing covers science, math and home improvement and design, as well as religion and the oriental healing arts. The Use of Phosphorous in Light Bulbs. What Is Red Phosphorus? The Properties of Nitrocellulose. How to Make Phosphorus. How to Make Acetate From Vinegar. When using matches on a day-to-d… […]. So imagine 6, of these tiny flames burning together all at […].

Could you please explain me, is it possible to burn matchstick with the help of radiation theory if yes how? Close Menu Home. Infographics Index. Like Loading