Thermoluminescence is a process in which certain materials emit light when they are heated. This phenomenon occurs in minerals, such as quartz and feldspar, which trap electrons when exposed to radiation over time. When these materials are heated, the trapped electrons are released, producing visible light. This property is useful in various fields, including archaeology and geology, for dating artifacts and geological samples. By measuring the amount of light emitted, scientists can determine when the material was last heated, providing insights into its history and age.