Explanation:

Reverberation is the persistence of sound in a particular space even after the sound source has stopped producing sound waves. It occurs when sound waves reflect off surfaces in a room and continue to bounce around, causing multiple reflections. This can create a prolonged and blurred sound effect.

To reduce reverberation, the amplitude of sound waves needs to be decreased. Here's why:

1. Understanding Sound Waves:
Sound waves are mechanical vibrations that travel through a medium, such as air, water, or solids. They consist of compressions and rarefactions, which create changes in pressure as they propagate through the medium.

2. Reflection of Sound Waves:
When sound waves encounter a surface, such as a wall or ceiling, they reflect off the surface. The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection, following the law of reflection.

3. Multiple Reflections:
In an enclosed space, sound waves can reflect off multiple surfaces, creating a series of reflections. These reflections overlap with the original sound waves, leading to an increase in sound intensity and prolonging the sound.

4. Amplitude and Sound Intensity:
The amplitude of a sound wave determines its intensity or loudness. Higher amplitudes result in higher sound intensities. In the case of reverberation, multiple reflections increase the overall sound intensity.

5. Decreasing Amplitude:
To reduce reverberation, the amplitude of sound waves needs to be decreased. By decreasing the amplitude, the sound intensity is reduced, resulting in a shorter duration of sound and less persistence.

6. Methods to Reduce Amplitude:
There are several methods to decrease the amplitude of sound waves and reduce reverberation:

- Sound Absorption: Materials that absorb sound, such as acoustic panels, curtains, or foam, can reduce the amplitude of reflected sound waves by converting the sound energy into heat energy.

- Diffusion: Diffusing sound waves can scatter them in different directions, preventing them from concentrating in a specific area and reducing the overall sound intensity.

- Soundproofing: Creating barriers or using soundproof materials can prevent sound waves from reflecting off surfaces and reduce the amplitude of reflected sound waves.

- Room Design: Proper room design, including the use of appropriate dimensions, shapes, and surfaces, can help minimize sound reflections and decrease reverberation.

In conclusion, reverberation can be reduced by decreasing the amplitude of sound waves. This can be achieved through sound absorption, diffusion, soundproofing, and appropriate room design.