Final answer:
The blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal is used in fMRI experiments to show differences in brain activity between conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal shows differences in brain activity levels in one condition versus another condition in an fMRI experiment. This signal reflects changes in the magnetic properties of blood due to the consumption of oxygen by active nerve cells in the brain. Functional MRI, or fMRI, measures such blood flow changes and oxygen consumption, commonly used in brain scans to map functioning regions responsible for thought, experiences, and motor control of the brain. The BOLD signal is integral to this process, allowing researchers to generate detailed images and maps of brain activity.