Matchsticks are small wooden sticks that are used to create fire. Each matchstick has a head coated with a flammable substance, which ignites when struck against a rough surface. They are commonly used for lighting candles, stoves, and fireplaces. There are two main types of matchsticks: safety matches and strike-anywhere matches. Safety matches can only be ignited on specific surfaces, while strike-anywhere matches can be lit by striking them against any rough surface. Matchsticks are a convenient and portable tool for starting fires in various settings.