Final answer:
Attenuation is the value commonly used to describe signal loss in a link. It is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates the reduction in signal strength as it travels through a medium.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of signal loss in a link, the attenuation value is commonly used to describe the reduction in signal strength as it travels through a medium. Attenuation is usually measured in decibels (dB). Higher values of attenuation indicate greater signal loss, while lower values indicate less signal loss. For example, if a signal has an attenuation of 3 dB, it means that the signal has been weakened by half.
Attenuation can occur in various types of communication systems, such as wired or wireless connections. In wired connections, factors such as resistance, impedance, and length of the cable can contribute to signal loss. Similarly, in wireless connections, factors like distance, obstacles, and interference can cause signal attenuation.