Thermoluminescence is a physical phenomenon in which certain materials emit light when heated. This is caused by the release of stored energy within the material, which is typically acquired from exposure to ionizing radiation.
Thermoluminescence is used in various scientific fields, such as archaeology, geology, and radiation dosimetry. It is particularly useful in dating archaeological artifacts and determining the age of geological materials.
Some common materials used for thermoluminescence dating include quartz, feldspar, and calcite. These minerals are often found in archaeological and geological samples and have the ability to store and release energy through thermoluminescence.
Thermoluminescence differs from other dating methods in that it measures the amount of stored energy in a material rather than the amount of radioactive decay. This makes it particularly useful for dating materials that have been exposed to heat or sunlight, as it can reset the stored energy and provide an accurate age estimate.
One limitation of thermoluminescence dating is that it can only be used on materials that have been exposed to heat or sunlight in the past. Additionally, it may not provide accurate results for materials that have been heavily altered or contaminated since their original exposure. It is also important to have a good understanding of the local environmental conditions and potential sources of radiation in order to accurately interpret the results.