What is the term for the reduction in signal strength over long distances, measured in decibels (dB)?

The term that describes the reduction in signal strength over long distances, measured in decibels (dB), is attenuation. Attenuation occurs when a signal travels through a medium such as a cable or air, and as the distance increases, the signal loses its strength. This is an important factor in audio-visual systems, as it can affect the quality and clarity of the signal being transmitted. Understanding attenuation is crucial for designing effective systems that ensure signal integrity over longer distances, which may involve using signal boosters or amplifiers to counteract this reduction in strength.

In contrast, signal boosting refers to the process of increasing signal strength rather than measuring its decrease. Reflection occurs when a signal bounces back rather than being transmitted through the medium, which is different from the concept of loss of strength. Amplification involves increasing the overall level of a signal to enhance its power, which again is not the same as the loss described by attenuation.