What is the function of a heatsink in a computer?

The function of a heatsink in a computer is to radiate heat away from the processor. Heatsinks are typically made of materials with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or copper, which help dissipate the heat generated by the CPU or other components. As the processor operates, it produces heat, and without an efficient cooling solution, it could overheat and lead to performance issues or hardware failure.

The heatsink absorbs this heat and then disperses it into the surrounding air, which helps maintain an optimal operating temperature for the processor. This is critical for ensuring stability and longevity of the computer system.

While some options mention aspects like active cooling with fans, storing energy, or aesthetic enhancements, those do not represent the primary role of a heatsink, which is specifically designed for heat dissipation.