Maven is a popular build automation tool used primarily for Java projects. It simplifies the process of managing project dependencies, compiling code, and packaging applications. By using a standardized project structure and a central repository for libraries, Maven helps developers streamline their workflow and maintain consistency across projects. Maven operates using a file called pom.xml, which stands for Project Object Model. This file contains information about the project, including its dependencies, build settings, and plugins. With Maven, developers can easily share their projects and collaborate, as it ensures that everyone is using the same versions of libraries and tools.