What is the primary purpose of the 105 mm clearing cartridge?

The primary purpose of the 105 mm clearing cartridge is to clear a projectile that may become lodged in the bore of a 105 mm cannon. This situation can arise due to various malfunctions during firing or loading, and it poses a significant safety risk if not addressed promptly. The clearing cartridge is specifically designed to generate enough force to dislodge an obstructed projectile without requiring complete disassembly of the weapon system, thereby maintaining operational readiness and ensuring the safety of personnel.

In contrast, the other options—enhancing projectile accuracy, increasing firing range, and providing extra propulsion—do not align with the intended function of the clearing cartridge. Accuracy and firing range pertain to the performance characteristics of regular ammunition rather than a dedicated clearing device, and extra propulsion is not necessary in the context of resolving a blockage in the bore. Thus, option B clearly represents the unique and critical role that the clearing cartridge plays in munitions systems maintenance and safety procedures.