What is the primary function of an antenna?

The primary function of an antenna is to transmit and receive electromagnetic waves at radio frequencies. Antennas play a crucial role in wireless communication by converting electrical energy into electromagnetic waves for transmission and then converting incoming electromagnetic waves back into electrical energy. This bidirectional capability allows antennas to facilitate communication over distances in various applications, ranging from radio and television signals to Wi-Fi and cellular networks.

In contrast, the other options refer to different functionalities or components within the broader context of radio technology. For instance, amplifying electrical signals is a task typically performed by amplifiers, not antennas. Modulating audio signals is a function related to transmitters, which encode information onto carrier waves, and while data can be stored, storage is not a primary function of antennas. The focus is solely on the interaction with electromagnetic waves, which distinguishes antennas from other electronic components involved in the transmission and reception of radio signals.