Thermoluminescence dating

Thermoluminescence dating is a method used to determine the age of ancient ceramics or minerals. When these objects are originally heated, trapped electrons are released, resetting the "luminescence clock." Over time, natural radiation from the environment gradually causes electrons to become trapped again within their minerals. By reheating the sample in a lab, scientists measure the amount of stored energy released as light (luminescence). This measure correlates to how long it has been since the object was last heated, allowing researchers to estimate its age accurately.