What is the significance of the $link variable in the mysql_query function, and how should it be defined for successful database connection?

The $link variable in the mysql_query function is used to establish a connection to the database before executing the query. It should be defined by using the mysqli_connect function to connect to the database server with the appropriate credentials. Without a valid $link variable, the mysql_query function will not be able to execute the query successfully.

// Define database connection parameters
$servername = "localhost";
$username = "your_username";
$password = "your_password";
$dbname = "your_database";

// Create a connection to the database
$link = mysqli_connect($servername, $username, $password, $dbname);

// Check connection
if (!$link) {
    die("Connection failed: " . mysqli_connect_error());
}