Thermal shock occurs when a material experiences a rapid change in temperature, leading to stress and potential damage. This phenomenon is common in materials like glass, ceramics, and metals, which can crack or break when exposed to sudden heat or cold. For example, placing a hot glass dish directly into cold water can cause it to shatter due to thermal shock. The effects of thermal shock depend on the material's properties, such as its thermal conductivity and expansion coefficient. Engineers often consider thermal shock when designing products like kitchenware and electronic devices to ensure they can withstand temperature fluctuations without failing.