How does an object maintain its identity when it becomes a copy of another?

An object in Magic: The Gathering maintains its identity when it becomes a copy of another through the mechanism of tracking changes to its name and characteristics. When an object becomes a copy of another, it assumes the copied object's name, mana cost, color, and other characteristics temporarily, but it does not lose its identity as a game object. Instead, it continues to exist as its original object while reflecting the characteristics of the target for the duration of the copy effect.

When the copying effect ceases, the object returns to its original state. This ability to track changes ensures that even when it temporarily takes on the properties of another object, it still retains its identity entrenched in the game’s rules. In this way, the copied object knows itself and can revert back to its original self once the copying effect ends, illustrating that its identity is preserved throughout the process.

The other options do not accurately convey this mechanism: adopting the identity of the copy permanently or losing identity completely inaccurately describes the nature of copying in the game. Additionally, suggesting that it remains unchanged regardless of copying contradicts the fundamental mechanics of how copying works, where it does reflect the new characteristics while the effect is active.