# Dictionary:Absorption

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(ab sorp’ sh∂n or ab zorp’ sh∂n)

1. A process whereby energy is converted into heat while passing through a medium. Absorption for seismic waves is typically about 0.25 dB/cycle and may be as large as 0.5 dB/cycle.[1]

Absorption involves change of amplitude and velocity with frequency; it is thus a mechanism (but not the only one) for attenuating high frequencies and changing waveshape (Peg-leg multiples, which do not involve absorption, produce effects that are similar.).

2. The process by which radiant energy is converted into other forms of energy.

3. The penetration of the molecules or ions of a substance into the interior of a solid or liquid.

Absorption terminology. Sometimes this terminology is used for attenuation because of factors other than absorption. E = energy, ${\displaystyle \Delta E}$ = energy lost in one cycle, ${\displaystyle \lambda }$ = wavelength, f = frequency, x = distance, t = time, ${\displaystyle {\frac {A}{A_{0}}}={\frac {\text{amplitude}}{\text{initial amplitude}}},{\frac {A_{1}}{A_{2}}}={\frac {\text{amplitude}}{\text{amplitude one cycle later}}}}$.[2]