The correct answer is B) limit the spread of fire and control the amount of heat produced. The primary function of an automatic sprinkler system is to limit the spread of fire and control the heat produced, not to protect people or extinguish the fire completely. Sprinkler systems are designed to activate when a fire is detected, releasing water to control the fire and prevent it from growing and spreading. This helps to create a safer environment for people in the affected area until the fire can be fully extinguished by other means. The other answer choices, while potentially related to sprinkler systems, do not accurately describe the primary function of these systems.