The rubbing surface of a matchbox has powdered glass and a little red phosphorus. This question belongs to the Railways category.

Explanation:
The rubbing surface of a matchbox is an important component of a matchstick that allows the ignition process to occur. It consists of a mixture of powdered glass and a little red phosphorus.

1. Purpose of the Rubbing Surface:
The rubbing surface is responsible for generating the necessary friction and heat required to ignite the matchstick. When the matchstick is rubbed against the rubbing surface, the friction between the two surfaces creates heat, initiating a chemical reaction that leads to the ignition of the matchstick.

2. Powdered Glass:
Powdered glass is one of the components of the rubbing surface. It is finely ground glass that is mixed with other ingredients to create a rough and abrasive surface. The rough texture of the powdered glass helps in increasing the friction between the matchstick and the rubbing surface, facilitating the ignition process.

3. Red Phosphorus:
Another important component of the rubbing surface is a little amount of red phosphorus. Red phosphorus is a highly reactive and flammable substance. When the matchstick is rubbed against the rubbing surface, the friction and heat generated cause the red phosphorus to undergo a chemical reaction with the potassium chlorate present in the match head.

4. Chemical Reaction:
The chemical reaction between the red phosphorus and potassium chlorate in the match head leads to the production of heat, gases, and a small flame. The heat generated from this reaction ignites the ignition compound on the match head, which then sustains the flame.

In conclusion, the rubbing surface of a matchbox contains powdered glass and a little red phosphorus. The powdered glass provides the necessary friction, while the red phosphorus undergoes a chemical reaction with the potassium chlorate in the match head, resulting in the ignition of the matchstick.