What materials are commonly used as radiation shielding?

Lead is commonly used as radiation shielding because of its high density and atomic number, which effectively attenuate various types of radiation, including gamma rays and X-rays. The ability of a material to block or absorb radiation depends largely on its density and thickness, and lead, being dense and heavy, provides superior protection compared to other materials. This makes it a standard choice in environments where radiation exposure is a concern, such as in radiology and nuclear facilities.

Other materials listed, while potentially useful in specific contexts, do not provide the same level of radiation shielding as lead. For instance, wood panels and plastic sheets are much less effective at attenuating radiation, primarily due to their lower density. Aluminum foil offers slight protection but is also not nearly as effective as lead, particularly against high-energy radiation. Therefore, lead’s properties make it the preferred material for radiation shielding.