What is the purpose of the .aprx file?

The .aprx file serves a crucial role in organizing and storing project information about layers and tables in a GIS environment. When working with ArcGIS Pro, the .aprx file aggregates various elements of a project, including maps, layouts, tools, and data connections. It enables users to save all settings and components related to their project in a single file, making it easier to manage and share the project with others.

In this context, the layers and tables are essential components of GIS, as they represent various types of geospatial data and their organization within the project. By encapsulating this information, the .aprx file ensures that users can access their work seamlessly, maintaining consistency across different sessions and facilitating collaboration.

While there are other file types that serve different purposes—such as map layout settings, database connections, or backup data—the primary function of the .aprx file is indeed to encapsulate comprehensive project information, including layers and tables, making option C the most appropriate choice.