What is the primary function of a lightning rod?

The primary function of a lightning rod is to attract lightning and protect structures. Lightning rods are designed to provide a safe pathway for lightning to follow when it strikes a building, thereby directing the electrical energy safely into the ground. This prevents the lightning from causing damage to the structure itself, such as starting fires or providing a shock hazard. The rod is typically made of conductive material and is installed at a location where it can intercept strikes, significantly reducing the risk of lightning damage.

In contrast, the other options address functions that are unrelated to the design and purpose of a lightning rod. Enhancing the conductivity of electrical circuits pertains to the flow of electricity through materials, which is not the primary concern of a lightning rod. Increasing air quality and filtering pollutants deals with environmental control and purification systems, again irrelevant to the function of a lightning rod. Storing electrical energy safely relates to batteries and other energy storage devices, which serve a different purpose from preventing lightning damage.