Which material is commonly used to shield against radiation exposure?

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Shielding against radiation relies on how effectively a material attenuates photons. Materials with high density and a high atomic number absorb gamma rays and X-rays more efficiently, so thinner layers can provide strong protection. Lead fits this well because its density and atomic structure cause photons to interact more readily, dramatically reducing exposure when used as shields in aprons, barriers, and room walls. Concrete can also shield, but you’d need a much thicker layer to reach the same protection, so it’s often used where cost and structure allow for substantial thickness. Glass and plastic don’t offer strong attenuation for high-energy photons, making them poor primary shields for gamma or X-ray exposure.