Answer: The correct answer is "A. research and development".
Research and development are NOT considered as one of the three primary functions that all organizations perform.
Explanation: The basic operating cycle of a company is buy-sell-collect-pay. In some cases, companies can produce the good they sell or directly re-sell it. This implies production, operation and marketing activities to increase sales and for an adequate control of these you need accounting.
Only in particular cases do companies engage in research and development, but it is not something basic.