Texas Industrial Radiography Gamma Practice Test

Which material is considered the most effective absorber of radiation?

1. Concrete

2. Lead

3. Depleted Uranium-DU

4. Steel

The correct answer is: Depleted Uranium-DU

The most effective absorber of radiation among the materials listed is lead. Lead is widely recognized in radiation shielding applications due to its high density and atomic number, which make it particularly efficient at attenuating gamma rays and X-rays. Its density allows it to effectively reduce the intensity of radiation, offering protection for individuals working in radiography and other fields that involve exposure to ionizing radiation. When compared to other materials like concrete, depleted uranium, and steel, lead consistently provides superior attenuation capabilities. While depleted uranium is also dense and can absorb radiation, it is not as commonly used for radiation shielding as lead because it poses additional health and safety risks due to its radioactive nature and toxicity. Concrete can provide reasonable shielding but is not nearly as effective as lead for high-energy gamma radiation, requiring significantly greater thickness to achieve the same level of attenuation. Steel is similarly less effective compared to lead, as its density does not match that of lead, leading to decreased performance in radiation absorption. In summary, lead's combination of high density and effective attenuation properties makes it the material of choice for radiation shielding, thereby making it the correct answer to the question.