What is the purpose of expansion slots on a motherboard?

The purpose of expansion slots on a motherboard is to enhance functionality by allowing users to add various components. These slots provide the necessary connections for hardware like graphics cards, sound cards, network cards, and other peripherals that can improve the performance and capabilities of a computer system. By using these slots, users can customize their systems according to their specific needs, whether for gaming, graphic design, or other specialized tasks. This modular design offers flexibility, as users can upgrade or replace components as needed without having to replace the entire motherboard or system.

While expansion slots do provide pathways for managing connections with additional hardware, their primary role is indeed to facilitate the addition of these components that broaden the computer's capabilities. Other aspects like temporary data storage or connecting power supply units are functionalities that do not fall within the primary purpose of expansion slots.