Which of the following policies is primarily designed to provide temporary coverage for a specific period?

Term life insurance is specifically designed to offer coverage for a predetermined period, often ranging from one to thirty years. During this time, it provides a death benefit to the beneficiaries if the insured individual passes away. The essential characteristic of term life is its temporary nature; once the term expires, the coverage ends, and there is no cash value accumulated. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who need protection for a limited time, such as to cover a mortgage or provide for dependents until they become financially independent.

In contrast, universal life, whole life, and variable life insurance policies are structured to provide lifelong coverage or a cash value component while allowing the policyholder certain flexibilities and investment opportunities. These types of policies typically involve higher premiums and are designed for long-term financial planning rather than temporary needs.