Match

A match (also called taraq or taraqa) is a small stick made of wood, rolled paper, or cardboard, with one end coated in a chemical substance that produces fire when struck against a rough surface. It is one of the simplest tools for starting fire and is used in homes, kitchens, kerosene lamps, and tobacco lighting.

The mechanism of operation is based on a chemical reaction that produces heat. When the head of a match is struck against a rough surface, the friction generates a small flame. This ignites the substances stored on the head, and the fire then passes to the stick, which is typically treated with a substance (wax) to allow combustion to continue.

Parts of a match

A match has two main parts: the stick (handle) and the head. The stick is usually made from dry wood such as poplar or pine, though sometimes it is made from rolled paper or cloth. The head contains an oxidizing substance—usually potassium chlorate—along with combustible material, adhesive, and natural substances that promote burning. The surface of the box is coated with a mixture of red phosphorus and a rough substance such as powdered glass.

Types

There are two common types. Safety matches can only be lit when struck against a specific surface on the box, because the reactive substances are divided between the head and the box. Strike-anywhere matches contain all necessary substances on the head and can therefore be lit on any rough surface; this second type is considered more hazardous when stored or transported.

Brief history

Modern matches emerged in nineteenth-century Europe. White phosphorus was initially used, which caused serious illness among factory workers and was linked to a disease affecting the jaw. It was later replaced with red phosphorus and other methods, leading to the development of the safety matches now in common use.

Storage and safety

Matches must be stored in a cool place away from children. The box should be kept away from the striking surface. House fires are frequently caused by matches that have not been properly extinguished or that have been played with by children.