When a match is struck and ignites, which energy transformation primarily occurs?

• A. Chemical energy is converted to thermal and light energy.
• B. Mechanical energy is converted to nuclear energy.
• C. Electrical energy is converted to chemical energy.
• D. Light energy is converted to chemical energy.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the initial form of energy involved when striking a match. The action of striking involves mechanical energy, but the key energy transformation relates to the substances in the match head.
2. Understand that the match head contains chemical compounds that store chemical potential energy. When ignited, a chemical reaction occurs, releasing this stored chemical energy.
3. Recognize that the chemical energy released during the reaction is transformed primarily into thermal energy (heat) and light energy (flame).
4. Eliminate other options by considering the nature of the energy transformations: mechanical to nuclear energy is not typical in this context; electrical to chemical energy does not occur here; light to chemical energy is not the primary process when striking a match.
5. Conclude that the primary energy transformation when a match ignites is the conversion of chemical energy into thermal and light energy.