Question

a matchstick is burning. the best summary of the energy transformation that takes place in the matchstick is what? chemical -- thermal -- light; mechanical -- thermal -- electrical; light + thermal -- chemical; mechanical -- nuclear -- thermal

Explanation:

When a matchstick burns, the chemical energy stored in the match head (due to substances like phosphorus) is first converted into thermal energy (heat) as the combustion reaction starts. This heat then causes the match to emit light, so the energy transformation is Chemical → Thermal → Light. The other options have incorrect energy transformation sequences (e.g., mechanical or nuclear energy are not the initial energy source in a matchstick burning, and light/thermal don't convert to chemical in this process).

Answer:

A. Chemical -- Thermal -- Light