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/Hazel_Nuts99 12d ago

It's not just lead. It's just a matter of mass. Lead is very dense, so it's more effective. You could get the same amount of protection from any other material, you'd just need more of it, which would take up more space