Technically, the merge refers to the swapping of the existing layer of Ethereum (called as Manniet) with its newly designed proof-of-stake (earlier proof-of-work algorithm) consensus layer, the Beacon Chain.
Yes, With the new Ethereum 2.0, the network is supposed to be able to perform up to 100,000 transactions per second and potentially even more.
It’s hard to say. With so many variables and unknowns, it is impossible to predict what will happen to Ethereum’s token price as a result of the Merge.
Staked ether will stay locked up with the network until around six to 12 months after the Merge.
the merge