A magic number is a term used in various fields, including mathematics and computer science, to describe a value that has special or significant properties. In computing, for example, it refers to an integer that is used as a flag or signal to indicate certain conditions or actions within a program. These numbers are often used internally by software programs to control the flow of execution or to trigger specific events. The term "magic number" can also be used more broadly to refer to any numerical value that has a unique and powerful effect, regardless of its origin or context.