What is the purpose of the `new` keyword in JavaScript?

The purpose of the new keyword in JavaScript is to create a new object instance from a constructor function. When you use new in front of a constructor function, JavaScript performs several key actions:

1. It creates a new, empty object.
2. It sets the prototype of the new object to the prototype object of the constructor.

3. It binds this within the constructor function to the newly created object, allowing instance properties to be assigned to it.
4. It returns the new object instance unless the constructor explicitly returns a different object.

This creates a direct connection between the constructor and the new object, allowing for properties and methods defined within the constructor to be accessible through the new instance. For example, if you create a constructor function Person, using new Person() would instantiate a new Person object with any properties and methods defined within the Person function.

In contrast, other options do not accurately describe the new keyword's functionality. For instance, it does not define new variable types, create new functions, or change variable scope.