What does the term "variable" mean in a scientific context?

In a scientific context, the term "variable" refers to a factor that can change in an experiment. This is crucial because variables are the elements that researchers manipulate or measure to observe their effects. For instance, in an experiment investigating the impact of light on plant growth, the amount of light received is a variable because it can be adjusted. Understanding variables allows scientists to establish cause-and-effect relationships, as they can compare how changes in one variable (e.g., light) affect another (e.g., plant growth). Therefore, recognizing and controlling variables is essential for valid and reliable scientific research.