Final answer:
The primary goal of a population census is to accurately count and estimate the population of a country, which is pivotal for government planning, allocation of resources, and political representation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary purpose of a population census is to estimate the number of people residing in a country. This demographic exercise, performed by agencies such as the United States Census Bureau, is crucial for obtaining a detailed snapshot of the population's size and distribution. The census data is essential for various reasons, such as the allocation of government funding, planning for services like education and health care, and representation in political processes.
Importantly, while a census does collect a broad range of information which may include data on income, employment, birth, and death rates, its primary purpose is not to promote tourism and cultural exchange, but rather to have an accurate headcount of the population. This count includes collecting demographic details such as age, sex, and race, potentially across various age groups, which can be used to understand population dynamics, calculate fertility rates, and assess many other social and economic factors.