What is the primary function of an antenna?

The primary function of an antenna is to radiate and/or collect electromagnetic waves, which is crucial for communication systems. Antennas act as transducers, converting electrical energy into electromagnetic waves for transmission and vice versa for reception. When an antenna transmits, it converts the electrical current into radio waves, allowing signals to travel through the air. Conversely, when receiving, it captures incoming electromagnetic waves and converts them back into electrical current for processing.

This function is fundamental to various applications, such as radio, television, and mobile phone communications, where data must be transmitted over distances without physical connections. An antenna's ability to efficiently radiate or collect these waves depends on its design, orientation, and frequency, among other factors.

The other options do not align with the primary functions of an antenna. Amplifying sound relates more to audio equipment rather than electromagnetic wave propagation. Generating electric power is typically associated with generators or power sources, while transmitting heat pertains to thermal energy transfer and is unrelated to the electromagnetic functions performed by antennas.