Final answer:
A polygraph measures physiological responses such as heart rate, respiration, and sweating, which may indicate lying. However, the accuracy of polygraphs is highly questionable.
Step-by-step explanation:
A polygraph, commonly referred to as a lie detector, measures the physiological arousal of an individual as they respond to a series of questions. The measurements include indicators like heart rate, respiration rate, and sweating, with the hypothesis that lying is often accompanied by increased physiological arousal. Trained professionals may interpret these physiological responses as signs of dishonesty, although the accuracy and validity of such interpretations are highly contested due to a lack of consistent evidence that lying produces a specific physiological pattern.