What is an autopsy primarily conducted for?

An autopsy is primarily conducted to determine the cause of death. This medical examination involves analyzing the body and its organs post-mortem to identify any diseases, injuries, or abnormalities that may have contributed to the individual's death. The findings from an autopsy can provide crucial information for medical, legal, and public health purposes. This includes clarifying the circumstances of an unexpected death, confirming diagnoses, and sometimes contributing to broader epidemiological research.

In the context of the other choices, performing a religious ritual, preparing the body for burial, and facilitating cremation are not central purposes of an autopsy. While certain religious rituals may take place after death, these are not purposes of the autopsy itself. Similarly, preparing the body for burial or cremation typically occurs after an autopsy has been completed and does not fall under its primary objective. Thus, determining the cause of death is the main reason for conducting an autopsy, making it the correct choice.