Final answer:
A join operation is a method used in databases to combine two tables with a common attribute into a single table or view. It allows for the retrieval of data from two different fields and consolidating them into one table.
Step-by-step explanation:
A join operation is a method used in databases to combine two tables with a common attribute into a single table or view. The common attribute can be any field that exists in both tables, not necessarily a primary key. This operation allows for the retrieval of data from two different fields and consolidating them into one table.