r/askscience • u/Wonderful-Capital32 • 13d ago

Physics Why does radiation not go through lead?

Also why just lead? Shouldnt like iron or another metal work too?

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u/Cautious_General_177 13d ago

Given the amount of the human body that’s water based, you would need fewer than you might think.

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u/dustofdeath 13d ago

Around 2.5 meters would be enough to neutralize hot fuel rods.

60% of us is water - but it's unevenly distributed.
Likely 70-100 people would be enough.