Why does a matchstick light when we strike it on a rough surface ?

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Solution

The tip of the matchstick generally contains Phosphorus , potassium. Potassium being highly reactive, undergoes immediate combustion when friction heat is generated by rubbing the tip of the match stick onto the side of the match box which is highly grooved enhancing its rough surface or for that matter any rough surface.

This is why the matchstick lights up when we strike it on a rough surface

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Similar questions

Why is it difficult to light a matchstick by striking it on a smooth surface ?

When light strikes smooth or rough surface it always bounces back in the same medium.

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