Partitioning is the process of dividing a larger entity into smaller, manageable parts. This concept is commonly used in various fields, such as computer science, where data is split into segments for easier processing and storage. In mathematics, partitioning refers to breaking down numbers or sets into distinct subsets. In the context of operating systems, partitioning can also refer to dividing a hard drive into separate sections, allowing for different file systems or operating systems to coexist. This helps improve organization and efficiency, making it easier to manage data and optimize performance.