**What is the primary function of an operating system scheduler?**
The primary function of an operating system scheduler is to manage the allocation of CPU time to various processes and threads in a multitasking environment. It prioritizes tasks based on scheduling algorithms, ensuring that processes receive adequate CPU resources while maintaining system responsiveness and efficiency. This function is crucial for optimizing system performance, minimizing latencies, and providing a smooth user experience by efficiently switching between processes. Overall, the scheduler plays a vital role in resource management within an operating system.