Final answer:
The flux coating of a SMAW electrode serves the function of shielding the weld pool from contamination by creating a protective gas shield around the welding arc.
Thus, the correct answer is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The flux coating of a SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) electrode serves the function of shielding.
This is achieved by creating a protective gas shield around the welding arc, preventing the weld pool from being contaminated by the surrounding atmosphere. It also helps to stabilize the arc and improve the weld quality.
Therefore, the correct answer is c. Shielding