An assembly line is a manufacturing process where a product is assembled in a sequential manner. Each worker or machine performs a specific task, allowing for efficient production. This method reduces the time it takes to create a product, as each component is added in a systematic order. The concept of the assembly line was popularized by Henry Ford in the early 20th century, particularly in the production of automobiles. By breaking down the manufacturing process into smaller, repetitive tasks, companies can produce large quantities of goods quickly and at a lower cost, benefiting both manufacturers and consumers.