Multiple choice

Which form of Phosphorus is used in safety matches?

  1. White phosphorus

  2. Yellow Phosphorus

  3. Red phosphorus

  4. Black phosphorus
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Red phosphorus is the stable allotrope used in safety matches because it's much less reactive than white phosphorus, which can ignite spontaneously in air. The striking surface on match boxes contains red phosphorus, which reacts with the match head when friction generates enough heat to start combustion.

Keep practicing — related questions