What is the function of a "Primary Key" in Access?

The primary key in Access serves the crucial function of uniquely identifying each record in a table. This means that for every entry in the table, the primary key ensures that there is a distinct and unique value that distinguishes one record from another. This uniqueness is essential for maintaining data integrity, as it prevents duplicate entries and allows for precise data retrieval.

When designing a database, the primary key acts as a reference point within a table, enabling efficient searching and filtering of records. Having a unique identifier allows for easy relationships to be formed between different tables, where other tables can reference this key to connect related data. This is fundamental in relational database design.

In relation to the other options, while primary keys can indirectly facilitate relationships between tables, their primary role is not to create those relationships themselves but to ensure that records can be reliably identified. Options that mention storing large amounts of data or performing calculations do not align with the function of a primary key, as it does not pertain to data size or computational functions but purely to the uniqueness and identification of records.