What are pedals used for in a piano and how do they enhance the sound produced by the instrument?

Pedals in a piano are used to sustain, soften, or change the tone of the notes being played. The sustain pedal allows the notes to ring out longer, the soft pedal reduces the volume and changes the tone, and the una corda pedal shifts the hammers to strike fewer strings, creating a softer sound. These pedals enhance the sound produced by the piano by adding depth, richness, and nuance to the music being played.