Final answer:
The statement that mixing potassium permanganate and glycerin can start a fire is true, as potassium permanganate acts as a strong oxidizer facilitating the rapid combustion of the glycerin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is true. When a strong oxidizer like potassium permanganate is mixed with an organic compound such as glycerin, a chemical reaction occurs that can start a fire.
This is due to the fact that potassium permanganate has a high reduction potential, making it a very strong oxidizer capable of donating oxygen to promote the combustion of organic compounds, which often contain carbon and hydrogen and are prone to burning.
Glycerin serves as the fuel in this reaction, and the potassium permanganate provides the necessary oxygen to support combustion.
The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat. This release of heat can ignite the glycerin, leading to a fire. This reaction is an example of rapid oxidation, and is often demonstrated in chemistry classes to show the effects of strong oxidizers on organic substances.