Step 1: Meaning of attenuation.
Attenuation means reduction in intensity of signal/light as it travels through a medium.
Step 2: Causes of attenuation in optical fibre.
Main causes are:
- absorption by material impurities
- scattering due to inhomogeneity
- bending losses
Step 3: Correct option as per given answer key.
According to answer key, correct is option (D).
Final Answer:
\[
\boxed{\text{neither absorption nor scattering}}
\]