What is the purpose of a finish applied to a material?

The purpose of a finish applied to a material primarily lies in its ability to enhance aesthetic properties and provide protection. Finishing processes can add visual appeal through various means, such as gloss, texture, or color, making the product more attractive to consumers. This aesthetic enhancement can significantly influence consumer choice and increase a product's marketability.

Moreover, finishes serve the functional role of providing protection against environmental factors such as moisture, UV rays, or abrasion, which can contribute to the longevity of the material. For example, a paint or lacquer not only adds color but also guards against rust or corrosion in metals or protects wood from moisture damage.

While improving the material's strength is a benefit of certain processes or treatments, it is not the primary aim of most finishes. Similarly, changing the material's color is just one aspect of the finishing process, and making a material heavier is generally not a desired outcome of applying a finish. Therefore, option B captures the comprehensive role that finishes play in product design.