What is the primary purpose of administering atropine eye drops in patients with amblyopia?

The administration of atropine eye drops in patients with amblyopia primarily serves to dilate the pupil and enhance visual function in the weaker eye. In cases of amblyopia, also known as "lazy eye," one eye has reduced vision that is not correctable by glasses or contact lenses. By using atropine, the stronger eye is temporarily blurred, which encourages the use of the weaker eye. This approach promotes visual development and helps the brain learn to process the input from the weaker eye, thereby addressing the issue of amblyopia more effectively.

The pupillary dilation achieved by atropine also helps in managing the condition by allowing better access to visual stimuli for the weaker eye. This intervention is part of a larger treatment strategy aimed at improving overall visual acuity in affected children. The other options do not relate to the treatment of amblyopia at all; thus, they do not serve the purpose of enhancing visual function in this specific context.