Shock absorbers are used to control unwanted spring motion in vehicles.
In mechanical shock absorbers, friction discs use rubbing action to resist spring oscillations.
In hydraulic shock absorbers, fluid is forced through small orifices to create resistance.
This fluid action converts kinetic energy into heat and thus damps the oscillations of the suspension spring.
This prevents continuous bouncing and ensures a smoother ride.
The fluid does not cool, lubricate, or create spring action — its main function is damping.
Therefore, the correct answer is damp the oscillations.