Final answer:
A variable is an unknown number or value represented by a letter. Variables are used in equations to represent quantities that can vary or change.
Step-by-step explanation:
A variable is an unknown number or value represented by a letter. In mathematics, variables are used to represent quantities that can vary or change. For example, in the equation 3x + 5 = 20, the variable x represents an unknown value.
Variables can be used in various mathematical operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. They allow us to solve equations and analyze relationships between different quantities.
It's important to note that a variable is not always represented by the letter x -- it can be represented by any letter or symbol.
Learn more about Variables in Mathematics