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Lead is applied as shielding to block (attenuate is the word we prefer) gamma rays. This form of radiation is electromagnetic in nature, and not particulate (composed of particles). Materials of high density (and lead is fairly high) are better at attenuating gamma rays than less dense materials. Additionally, lead is cheap and easy to work with. You've doubtless heard of lead being used to shield against X-rays, which are just a bit lower in frequency than the gamma rays.
It is the "close spacing" of the atoms and the "bigness" of the atomic nuclei of lead that make it good for use in gamma ray shielding. Gamma rays "cut right through" electron clouds around atoms, and only the nuclei of atoms really give the gamma ray something to interact with. As regards particles, lead will stop alpha and beta radiation with ease, but so will a sheet of aluminum foil. Lead isn't that great at stopping neutron radiation. Shielding for neutrons requires atoms with small nuclei, so lead isn't so hot in that application.
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∙ 14y ago
Wiki User
∙ 11y agoThat question was posed by somebody who wanted to test if a person knew that x-rays and gamma rays were the same. The difference between the two is that gamma rays are produced by natural processes while x-rays are man-made. Lead will effective block both x-rays and gamma rays at the same wave length and at the same intensity. No difference.
Wiki User
∙ 12y agoThe amount of protection a given material provides is measured by its half thickness: the thickness required to attenuate a particular form of radiation to half its original level. Lead has a small half thickness for x-rays, so would be a good shield for them. It is not quite as good for gamma rays but is still OK. For neutrons, boron or cadmium would be better. Borated concrete between layers of lead sheet makes a very good shield for all radiation, but is very heavy. It is commonly used around reactors.
Wiki User
∙ 7y agoNormal lead is NOT radioactive. Like most elements, lead has several isotopes, some of which are radioactive. But naturally occurring lead is not radioactive.Please note that, while lead isn't radioactive, it's poisonous - so it is still dangerous.
Wiki User
∙ 7y agoRadioactive isotopes are unstable.
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Two solid blocks of identical size are submerged in water One block is lead and the other is aluminum Upon which is the buoyant force greater?
I would say the the lead displaces less water. Think about the sizes and densities. If you have a block of lead and a block of aluminum (weighing the same), common sense tells you, the lead block is going to be a lot smaller due to his great density. Therefore, smaller block displaces less water
What are examples of radioactivity?
For example natural and artificial radioactivity.
A block of styrofoam floats on water while a same size block of lead lies submerged in the water The buoyant force is greatest on the?
The block of Styrofoam floats on water while a same size block of lead lies submerged in the water. The buoyant force is greatest on the lead. Compared to an empty ship, the same ship loaded with Styrofoam will float lower in the water.
What will stop gamma rays?
gamma rays can be stop by lead block
What are radioactivity?
Radioactivity was discovered by Henry Becquerel but the term 'Radioactivity' was given by Madam Curie. It is the process of process of spontaneous disintegration of nucleus and is measured by Geiger counter.
What absorbs radioactivity?
lead
What does uranium become when its lost its radioactivity?
Uranium becomes lead
What is the material commonly used to shield living beings from potentially harmful radioactivity?
Lead
Which type of radioactivity would be most dangerous if you were exposed to it from a source outside of your body?
Gamma radioactivity would be the most dangerous because, unlike alpha particles that can be blocked by paper or skin, and beta particles which can be shielded by foil, gamma radioactivity would need a lead shield. Plus gamma radioactivity effects organic material.
What materials are commonly used to shield living beings from potentially harmful radioactivity?
The protective apron used by dentists contains lead, which is highly opaque to radioactivity. (You would also notice that if you read Superman comic books; lead is used to safely contain kryptonite.)
What element is used to shield humans from radioactivity?
Usually lead (Pb) because it is a cheap heavy metal.
How do you tell which battery lead is positive or negative?
The negative should lead to the frame, block, or body. The positive will lead to the starter and fuses.The negative should lead to the frame, block, or body. The positive will lead to the starter and fuses.
What is the radioactivity for lead?
The main lead isotopes 206Pb, 207Pb and 208Pb, are not radioactive. It does have traces of radioactive isotopes, but the quantity is so small that lead's radioactivity can be considered zero. It is however toxic if ingested.
Why you use lead chamber in radioactivity?
Anything works to stop radiation but lead is effective, safe and easy to handle, and relatively inexpensive. Seriously, check cost of lead vs depleted uranium.
Is lead heavier than iridium?
Lead has a higher atomic number than iridium, which means a lead atom is heavier than an iridium atom. however iridium is denser, therefore if you had a block of iridium and a block of lead,the iridium block would be heavier
Why does radioactivity lead to genetic mutations?
The high-energy particles and electromagnetic waves of radiation damage macromolecules, including DNA.
How does radioactivity affect the water cycle?
Radioactivity affect the water molecules. Radioactivity makes it harmful
