What is the purpose of a bus in a computer system?

The purpose of a bus in a computer system is primarily to transfer data between components efficiently. A bus acts as a communication system that facilitates the transfer of data, address, and control signals among the various components of a computer, such as the CPU, memory, and input/output devices. By utilizing a bus, a computer system can manage multiple data pathways effectively, allowing for faster communication and improved performance. This is crucial because, in complex systems, the coordination of information exchange among components is key to overall system functionality and efficiency.

The other options describe functions that are not directly attributed to the role of a bus in a computer system. For instance, while a power supply is vital for operation, it is not the function of a bus. Similarly, regulating voltage and storing temporary data are tasks typically handled by different components or systems in a computer architecture.