What measuring unit is commonly used to describe signal attenuation?

Decibels are the standard unit used to measure signal attenuation in telecommunications. Attenuation refers to the loss of signal strength as it travels through a medium, which can occur due to various factors such as distance, obstacles, and other interferences. The decibel scale is logarithmic, allowing for a more manageable representation of large variations in signal strength. When a signal is attenuated, it is often expressed in negative decibels, indicating the amount of signal loss.

Understanding this concept is critical for professionals in the field, as it helps in designing and troubleshooting communication systems. Other options like dew point assess humidity levels, hertz measure frequency, and volts evaluate electrical potential, none of which pertain specifically to the measurement of signal attenuation.