The primary purpose of a stethoscope is to listen to internal sounds of the body, particularly the heart and lungs. It is an essential tool used by healthcare professionals for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions. By amplifying sounds such as heartbeats, breath sounds, and other bodily noises, a stethoscope allows clinicians to assess the functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It can also help detect abnormalities, like heart murmurs or irregular lung sounds. The stethoscope is an iconic symbol of the medical profession, reflecting its importance in clinical practice and patient care.