What is the primary function of a drill bit?

The primary function of a drill bit is to remove material by drilling through, which creates a circular hole. Drill bits are specifically designed with cutting edges that engage with the material and allow for the removal of material as the bit rotates. This rotational motion, combined with the axial pressure applied by the drill, effectively cuts through the material, resulting in a cylindrical hole.

The design of drill bits is crucial for their operation; they come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of materials and hole dimensions. For instance, a twist drill bit features a helically fluted design that helps in removing the cut material (the chips) from the hole while simultaneously preventing binding.

While other options might relate to tools or processes in engineering, they do not reflect the primary purpose of a drill bit as accurately as the creation of circular holes through material removal. The functions described in the other options pertain to different tools or applications, such as surface finishing, fastening, or measuring, but do not align with the fundamental role of a drill bit.