What is the primary function of a heat sink?

The primary function of a heat sink is to dissipate heat from the CPU. In computing, processors generate a significant amount of heat during operation due to electrical resistance and the high-speed processing of data. If this heat is not effectively managed, it can lead to overheating, which can cause thermal throttling or even permanent damage to the CPU.

Heat sinks are designed to increase the surface area that is in contact with the air, allowing for efficient heat transfer away from the CPU. They typically consist of metal, often aluminum or copper, which conducts heat well. By dissipating heat, heat sinks help maintain optimal operating temperatures, enabling the CPU to function efficiently and reliably over time. This contributes significantly to the overall performance and longevity of computer systems.