What is the primary purpose of the Linux kernel?

The primary purpose of the Linux kernel is to manage hardware resources and system calls. The kernel serves as the core component of the Linux operating system, acting as a bridge between the hardware and the software applications running on a system. It handles communication between the hardware (like CPU, memory, and peripherals) and software processes by managing hardware resources and system calls, which are essential for executing programs and performing tasks that require hardware interaction.

This involves scheduling tasks, managing memory allocation, handling input/output operations, and facilitating interactions between different processes, ensuring that they operate smoothly. Thus, the kernel plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and efficiency of the system by optimizing how hardware resources are allocated and utilized by various processes.