Which of the following is NOT a purpose of using oil on microscope lenses?

Using oil on microscope lenses serves several important functions that enhance the overall viewing experience of samples under a microscope. The primary purpose of immersion oil is to increase light transmission. When using high-power lenses, such as oil immersion lenses, the oil bridges the gap between the lens and the specimen, thereby reducing the loss of light due to refraction at the air-to-glass interface. This is critical for capturing more light from the specimen, which contributes to a brighter and clearer image.

Additionally, oil helps to improve resolution. By minimizing the refraction of light as it passes through the specimen and into the lens, oil enables microscopists to see finer details in the specimen. This enhances the clarity and definition of the image, allowing for better visualization of small structures or organisms.

While cleaning may be made easier in some respects when using oil, it is not one of its primary purposes. Oil can actually complicate the cleaning process due to its sticky nature and the way it can trap dust and debris. Therefore, while it might provide some advantage in the cleaning process, it is not a primary reason for its use compared to the other functions mentioned.