What is the meaning of the verb abstract in a scientific context?

In a scientific context, the verb "abstract" primarily means to extract or remove something from a larger whole. This meaning is especially relevant in research, where scientists often abstract data or ideas to focus on specific elements relevant to their inquiry. For instance, when conducting an experiment, a researcher might abstract key variables from a complex system to analyze them individually, thereby isolating the effects of each variable.

The other choices do not align with the primary scientific usage of "abstract." Summarizing key points generally pertains to condensing information, increasing complexity refers to making a system less straightforward rather than simplifying it, and establishing a theory involves proposing a systematic explanation rather than the act of extraction. Thus, selecting the meaning that encompasses the act of removal or extraction best captures the essence of how "abstract" is utilized in scientific discussions.