In the context of intelligence, what does the term “fluid” refer to?

The term "fluid" in the context of intelligence refers to the ability to think abstractly and solve novel problems. This aspect of intelligence is characterized by the capacity to reason quickly and adaptively, allowing individuals to tackle new challenges and situations that they have not encountered before. Unlike crystallized intelligence, which involves knowledge that has been acquired through experience and learning over time, fluid intelligence emphasizes problem-solving capabilities and cognitive flexibility. Therefore, when discussing fluid intelligence, we are looking at how well individuals can process information, draw upon logical reasoning, and apply their knowledge to unfamiliar tasks, without relying solely on learned experiences.