mineraluminescence

Mineraluminescence is a phenomenon where certain minerals emit light when subjected to mechanical stress or deformation. This light emission is typically observed as a brief flash or glow and is often associated with processes like fracture, grinding, or crushing of the mineral. The mechanism behind mineraluminescence involves the release of stored energy within the mineral's crystal lattice. When the mineral is stressed, electrons can be excited to higher energy levels. As these electrons return to their ground state, they release energy in the form of photons, which we perceive as light.

The intensity and color of the emitted light can vary depending on the specific mineral and the nature of the stress applied. Some minerals exhibit visible light emission, while others may emit in the ultraviolet or infrared spectrum, requiring specialized detection equipment. Examples of minerals known to display mineraluminescence include quartz, calcite, fluorite, and sphalerite. The phenomenon is distinct from triboluminescence, which specifically refers to light produced by friction or breakage. Mineraluminescence is a broader term that encompasses light generation from various forms of mechanical energy input, not solely friction. It is a topic of interest in geology and materials science for understanding crystal deformation and energy release processes.