Define discrete manufacturing.

Discrete manufacturing refers to the process of producing distinct items or products that can be counted individually. This type of manufacturing typically involves assembling various components together to create finished goods, such as machinery, vehicles, electronics, and other items made of numerous distinct parts.

Choosing this option is appropriate because discrete manufacturing is characterized by producing items that can be tracked individually, unlike continuous flow items that are produced in bulk and are not counted piece by piece. This distinguishes discrete manufacturing from other types, which may focus on processes that produce homogeneous goods or materials where counting is less relevant, such as items sold by weight or volume. Therefore, the nature of producing countable products like screws fits precisely within the definition of discrete manufacturing.