(very) Quick Science Sift #13: Triboluminescent Candy!

Triboluminescence or fractoluminescence is the effect whereby light is given off when a crystal is broken. It is thought that the electric charge separation that occurs when many asymmetrical crystalline bonds are broken is sufficient to exceed the dielectric breakdown gradient in air and cause a spark to jump between the broken pieces. Common sugar is one such molecule that will display this property. "Wint-O-Green" candy works especially well due to the fluorescence of methyl salicylate which absorbs the ultraviolet component of light from the sparks created in air and converts it to visible blue light. A close cousin of this effect, triboelectriciy, is still used today as the principle behind Van DeGraff generators, devices which form the first stages of the worlds most powerful particle accelerators. Fun to try at home!

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