Which one of the following is used in preparing match sticks ?

Red phosphorus is a critical component in the manufacturing of matches. In modern safety matches, the match head typically contains an oxidizing agent like potassium chlorate [1], while the striking surface of the matchbox contains red phosphorus mixed with glass powder. When the match head is rubbed against the striking surface, the friction converts a small amount of red phosphorus into white phosphorus, which ignites spontaneously and initiates the combustion of the match head. While potassium nitrate (Indian saltpetre) and sodium nitrate (Chile saltpetre) are used as oxidizers in gunpowder and explosives, they are not the primary igniters in match sticks. Sodium bicarbonate is primarily used in baking and fire extinguishers. Therefore, red phosphorus is the specific substance among the options used in the match-striking process.

Sources

1. [1] https://www.cia.gov/library/abbottabad-compound/A9/A9B61854A333CA7CBC949AD221379EB0_BASIC_PRINCIPLES_OF_EXPLOSIVES.pdf