What is the main purpose of a graphics processing unit (GPU)?

The main purpose of a graphics processing unit (GPU) is to accelerate rendering and processing of images. This specialized hardware is designed to handle complex graphical computations, making it significantly more efficient than a central processing unit (CPU) for tasks such as 3D rendering, image processing, and video gameplay. The architecture of a GPU allows it to process many tasks simultaneously, which is essential for delivering high-quality visuals with high frame rates in video games and graphic-intensive applications.

While managing data storage is a function associated with storage devices and not directly related to the GPU, enhancing audio quality pertains to sound processing components rather than graphics processing. Facilitating internet browsing is primarily the function of the CPU and network hardware; though a GPU may assist in rendering web content, it is not its primary role. Thus, the correct answer highlights the GPU's core purpose as a powerhouse for graphical output and visual computation.