A baton is a short, thin stick used in various contexts, most commonly in relay races. In track and field, runners pass the baton to their teammates to complete a race. The baton is typically made of lightweight materials, such as aluminum or plastic, and is about 30 centimeters long. In music, a baton is a slender stick used by conductors to lead an orchestra or choir. The conductor uses the baton to indicate tempo and dynamics, helping musicians stay in sync. Batons can be made from wood, fiberglass, or other materials, and they vary in length and weight depending on the conductor's preference.