The tip of a match is ignited as it is struck against the matchbox. Why is this a chemical change?

Question

Group of answer choices

The tip of the match is flammable and is set on fire.

The color of the match tip has changed.

The match changes size as it burns.

The match is melting.

Answer 1

The correct choice that best explains why the igniting of a match tip is a chemical change is:

The tip of the match is flammable and is set on fire.

This is because when the match is struck, a chemical reaction occurs that transforms the materials in the match tip into new substances (such as combustion gases, ash, and heat), which characterizes a chemical change. The other options involve physical changes (like color change or size change) or do not accurately describe the key aspect of combustion being a chemical process.