What does the US constitution say about taxation and for what purpose are the taxes collected?

The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to levy taxes in Article I, Section 8, allowing for the collection of taxes necessary to pay debts, provide for the common defense, and promote the general welfare. Additionally, the 16th Amendment permits Congress to impose income taxes without apportioning them among the states. Taxes collected are primarily used to fund government operations, public services, infrastructure, and social programs that benefit the nation as a whole.