Amalgamation is the process of combining two or more entities into a single entity, often to enhance efficiency or market presence. This term is commonly used in business, where companies merge to pool resources, share risks, and increase competitiveness. The resulting organization typically benefits from economies of scale and a broader customer base. In the context of mining, amalgamation refers to a method of extracting valuable metals, such as gold, by mixing crushed ore with mercury. The mercury binds with the metal, allowing for easier separation. However, this method poses environmental and health risks due to mercury's toxicity.