What term refers to the repeated echoes produced by sound waves?

The term that refers to the repeated echoes produced by sound waves is reverberation. Reverberation occurs when sound waves reflect off surfaces in an environment, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a series of echoes that linger and overlap. This phenomenon is commonly experienced in large, open spaces like concert halls or cathedrals, where sound can bounce off multiple surfaces before fading away.

In contrast, refraction refers to the bending of sound waves as they pass through different mediums, which affects how sound travels but does not create repeated echoes. Resonance is the amplification of sound that occurs when objects vibrate at their natural frequency, while absorption involves the damping of sound waves by materials that soak up sound energy, reducing echoes rather than producing them. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone studying acoustics or sound production.