What is the primary use of the batteries in a typical analog multimeter?

The primary use of batteries in a typical analog multimeter is to operate the ohm meter. In analog multimeters, the ohmmeter function requires a power source to send a current through the resistor being tested. The battery provides the necessary voltage for this function, allowing the multimeter to measure resistance by observing the current flow and the voltage drop across the resistor.

The other functions that a multimeter can perform, such as measuring voltage or frequency, do not specifically rely on the battery in the same way that the ohm meter does, as they often measure external voltages or signals without needing internal power. Hence, while batteries are important for the overall functionality of the multimeter, their critical role in the ohm meter section stands out.