Final answer:
Attenuation refers to the decrease in a signal's strength as it moves away from its source, often resulting in a lower amplitude wave due to energy dispersion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The loss of a signal's strength as it travels away from the source is referred to as attenuation. This phenomenon occurs because the energy of the wave is dispersed over a wider area as it propagates through the medium. In sound waves, for instance, attenuation can lead to a decrease in amplitude, meaning the wave's energy reduces as it passes through the air, leading to a quieter sound the further it gets from the source. This loss in amplitude is also called damping, and it's a significant factor in various fields such as telecommunications and audio engineering where the strength of a signal and its clarity are paramount.