What is a burial vault intended to do?

A burial vault is specifically designed to protect the casket and its contents from various external factors. This includes safeguarding against the effects of the environment, such as soil pressure, water intrusion, and the weight of earth and heavy machinery during and after burial. By being constructed from durable materials such as concrete or metal, burial vaults also serve to prevent the casket from collapsing under these pressures, thereby ensuring the integrity of the burial over time.

While enhancing aesthetic appeal, serving as a decorative feature, or providing a memorial space are certainly aspects associated with cemetery practices, their primary purpose does not align with that of a burial vault. The main function focuses on the protective qualities that it offers to the casket and its contents, making option B the most appropriate choice.