How do the pedals on the piano affect the sound produced?

The pedals on a piano affect the sound produced by changing the way the strings vibrate. The sustain pedal allows the strings to continue vibrating even after the keys are released, creating a fuller sound. The soft pedal shifts the hammers so they strike fewer strings, producing a softer tone. The una corda pedal shifts the hammers to strike only one string per note, creating a quieter and more delicate sound.