Quartz Triboluminescence

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Djchrismac
Posts: 176
Joined: Fri Nov 08, 2013 7:14 pm

Quartz Triboluminescence

Post by Djchrismac »

I never knew about this, very interesting:



What is Triboluminescence?

Triboluminescence is a flash of light produced when a material is subjected to friction, impact or breakage. The phenomenon is also known as fractoluminescence and mechanoluminescence. Triboluminescence is common in minerals. About 50% of crystalline materials are thought to exhibit the property. It is also observed in many noncrystalline materials [1].

Why is Light Produced?

The phenomenon of triboluminescence is poorly understood. Some researchers believe that scratching or hitting materials together provides an input of energy that excites electrons within the materials. When the electrons fall from their excited state, a flash of light is produced [2]. Others believe that triboluminescence is similar to lightning and caused by an electrical current generated by force applied to the materials. The electrical current travels through the material, causing molecules of gas trapped within the crystal to glow [3].

The flashes of light produced by triboluminescent minerals is usually white or orange, but other colors are possible. We may not see all of the light that is produced because some of it could have wavelengths that are outside of the visible spectrum of humans [2].

https://geology.com/minerals/triboluminescence/

How Quartz Triboluminescence Works

Triboluminescence sometimes is called "cold light" because no heat is produced. Material scientists believe the light results from a recombination of electrical charges that become separated when crystals are fractured. When the charges get back together, the air is ionized, producing a flash of light. Usually, materials that display triboluminescence are displayed an asymmetrical structure and are poor conductors. This is not a hard-and-fast rule, however, since other substances display the effect. It's not restricted to inorganic materials, either, since triboluminescence has been observed between vertebral joints, during blood circulation, and even during sexual intercourse.

If it's true the light results from ionization of air, you might expect all forms of triboluminescence in the air to produce the same color of light. However, many materials contain fluorescent substances that release photons when excited by the energy from triboluminescence. Thus, you can find examples of triboluminescence in just about any color.

https://www.thoughtco.com/quartz-tribol ... nce-607591


Scientists still cannot figure this one out but is this is a result of the friction creating a sheer between space and time and as a result the photons are emitted?
Gopi
Posts: 166
Joined: Wed Jan 05, 2005 1:58 am

Re: Quartz Triboluminescence

Post by Gopi »

I think this is because of pressure being a trigger for multiple motions coming out - light AND electricity. If you remember, quartz is also piezoelectric. When it leaves the volume of quartz, it is light, when it stays in the body, it is electric. A lot like mini-lightning.
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