Annealing is a heat treatment process used to alter the physical and sometimes chemical properties of materials, typically metals and glass. By heating the material to a specific temperature and then allowing it to cool slowly, annealing helps reduce hardness and brittleness, making the material more workable. This process can improve ductility and relieve internal stresses, which can occur during manufacturing. In the case of metals, annealing can enhance their strength and flexibility, making them easier to shape and form. For glass, annealing helps prevent cracking and ensures a uniform structure. Overall, annealing is essential in various industries for producing high-quality materials.