What is the purpose of the Layers panel in Illustrator?

The Layers panel in Adobe Illustrator serves the essential function of organizing and managing artwork elements. This feature allows users to categorize different components of their design into separate layers, which can be individually edited, hidden, locked, or deleted. By utilizing layers, artists and designers can work more efficiently, as it enables them to focus on specific aspects of their artwork without interference from other elements.

For example, when creating a complex illustration, an artist can separate the background, main subjects, and additional details into distinct layers. This separation simplifies the editing process, ensuring that modifications can be made to one element without affecting others. Additionally, the Layers panel provides visual clarity, making it easier to navigate through different elements of a design, particularly in projects with numerous components.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary function of the Layers panel. Adding effects, resizing images, and creating animations are tasks that can be accomplished using various tools and features in Illustrator, but they are not specifically related to the organization and management of artwork, which is the primary strength of the Layers panel.