Matchstick tips are loaded with:

Correct answer: (b) Red phosphorus

Explanation

Red phosphorus is the form used in safety matches. It is stable and not poisonous, unlike white phosphorus, which catches fire in air and is very toxic; white phosphorus matches were banned for that reason.

In a safety match, the red phosphorus is on the striking strip of the box, while the match head carries potassium chlorate and antimony sulphide. Friction turns a trace of red phosphorus into white phosphorus, which ignites and lights the head.