Experimental evolution is a research area that involves studying evolutionary processes and mechanisms through controlled experiments conducted in a laboratory setting. This approach allows scientists to observe and manipulate specific variables that influence evolution, such as mutation rates, selection pressures, and genetic drift. By studying populations of organisms over multiple generations, researchers can track the changes that occur and gain insight into how evolution works on a small scale. Experimental evolution can provide valuable information about adaptation, speciation, and the effects of environmental changes on evolutionary trajectories.