What is the primary purpose of the project charter?

Correct answer: To formally authorize the project and assign the project manager

Option D is correct because, according to the PMBOK Guide, the project charter formally authorizes the existence of the project and grants the project manager the authority to apply organizational resources to project activities, making authorization and assignment of the project manager its primary purpose. Option A is incorrect because detailed scope definition is the purpose of the scope statement and the Work Breakdown Structure, which are developed after the charter. Option B is incorrect because risk identification and mitigation are documented in the risk register and risk management plan, not the charter, which only mentions high-level risks at best. Option C is incorrect because establishing the budget and schedule baseline occurs during the planning process group through cost and schedule management plans, not through the project charter.