Answer
Variables passed with -e or Compose are injected at runtime and override image defaults without being stored in layers.
Quick Answer
Environment variables are passed to containers via -e VAR=value or --env-file. Inside the container they appear as normal env vars that the app reads. They're great for config (database URLs, ports, feature flags) but not for sensitive secrets — they show up in docker inspect and process listings.
S
SugharaIQ Editorial Team
Verified Answer
This answer has been peer-reviewed by industry experts holding senior engineering roles to ensure technical accuracy and relevance for modern interview standards.
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Source: SugharaIQ