[bagosm]

Please allow me to unify the two theories, because both seem correct.

The free flow merge theory applies only in open areas with maybe temporary blocks that flow is unrestricted in any other way.

The no-merge theory applies on situations with traffic lights (and/or other special flow control such as a policeman or toll booths etc) where you suppose there are cut-off points that allow a specific number of vehicles per second.

[susi22]

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to lay out any "theory". I really just meant to criticize. I'd suggest to just stick with the theories that researchers have come up with and improve upon them.