References (or refs), on Wikipedia, are important to validate writing and inform the reader of the source of the text. When adding something to an article, it is highly advisable to cite a reference which describes the source of the information to help the reader who wishes to verify it, or to pursue it in greater depth. It is also useful to update or improve existing references.
Using the advanced settings of Google, you can use it to search Wikipedia much more effectively than Wikipedia's search box. Simply enter the desired search term(s) at Google, then go to Google's advanced search screen and insert Wikipedia's URL (web address) into the "Domain" box, and click "Google search."
