What is a permanent in Magic: The Gathering and how does it impact gameplay?

In Magic: The Gathering, a permanent is a card that stays on the battlefield once it is played, such as creatures, lands, artifacts, enchantments, and planeswalkers. Permanents impact gameplay by providing ongoing effects, abilities, and resources that players can use to strategize and win the game. They can influence combat, mana production, card advantage, and overall board state, making them essential components of gameplay.