question #3 Sahih Muslim 274e, Book 2, Hadith 97 : What is the significance of wiping over socks in the context of ablution?

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) went out for relieving himself. When he came back I brought for him a jar (of water) and poured water upon his hands and He washed his face. He tried to wash his forearms, but as the (sleeves of the) gown were tight. He, therefore, brought them out from under the gown. He then washed them, wiped his head, and wiped his socks and then prayed.