Causal explanation refers to the process of identifying and clarifying the reasons behind an event or phenomenon. It seeks to establish a cause-and-effect relationship, helping to understand why something happened. For example, if a plant wilts, a causal explanation might point to insufficient water as the reason. In scientific research, causal explanations are crucial for developing theories and making predictions. By analyzing data and conducting experiments, researchers can determine the factors that lead to specific outcomes. This method is essential in fields like psychology, medicine, and economics, where understanding causes can inform interventions and policies.