Thermal degradation is the process where materials break down or lose their properties due to exposure to high temperatures. This can occur in various substances, including plastics, rubber, and even some metals. When heated, the chemical bonds within these materials can weaken, leading to changes in their structure and function. This phenomenon is important in fields like materials science and engineering, as it can affect the performance and lifespan of products. For example, in the case of polymer materials, thermal degradation can result in discoloration, brittleness, or loss of strength, impacting their usability in applications like automotive parts or electronic devices.