1. n. [Geophysics]

The loss of energy or amplitude of waves as they pass through media. Seismic waves lose energy through absorption, reflection, and refraction at interfaces; mode conversion and spherical divergence; or spreading of the wave.

Alternate Form: attenuate

See related terms: amplitude,  converted wave,  Fresnel zone,  Q,  suppression,  true-amplitude recovery,  wave

2. n. [Formation Evaluation]

The reduction in amplitude of an electromagnetic wave passing through the formation, usually measured in decibels per meter, dB/m. The term is used in particular with reference to the propagation resistivity log and the electromagnetic propagation log.

See related terms: attenuation resistivity,  decibel,  electromagnetic propagation measurement,  propagation resistivity measurement