integration

In mathematics, a method in calculus of determining the solutions of definite or indefinite integrals. An example of a definite integral can be thought of as finding the area under a curve (as represented by an algebraic expression or function) between particular values of the function's variable. In practice, integral calculus provides scientists with a powerful tool for doing calculations that involve a continually varying quantity (such as determining the position at any given instant of a space rocket that is accelerating away from Earth). Its basic principles were discovered in the late 1660s independently by the German philosopher Leibniz and the British scientist Newton.

integration

Merger of two firms. Vertical integration occurs if the two firms are at different stages of the production process. Forward integration occurs when a firm takes over a company which buys its products, such as a car manufacturer taking over a car dealership. Backward integration occurs when one firm takes over another which supplies it, such as a car manufacturer taking over a car components company. Horizontal integration occurs if the two firms are at the same stage of the production process, such as one car manufacturer merging with another car manufacturer.