Description: Branch merging is the process of combining changes from one branch into another within a version control system. This process is fundamental in collaborative software development, as it allows for the integration of contributions from different developers working in parallel on various features or bug fixes. Merging can be automatic or manual, depending on whether there are conflicts between the changes made in the branches. In the case of conflicts, the developer must resolve them before completing the merge. Branch merging not only helps maintain a clear history of changes but also facilitates collaboration, allowing multiple developers to work on different aspects of a project without interfering with each other. Additionally, branch merging can be automated through continuous integration practices, ensuring that tests and integration are efficiently performed before changes are integrated into the main branch. This process is essential for maintaining code quality and software stability as it evolves.
