Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

From which of the following materials should a box for storing gamma radioactive substances be made?

  1. lead

  2. graphite

  3. aluminium

  4. glass

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

Lead is the best material for storing gamma radioactive substances because it has high density and atomic number, making it an excellent shield against gamma radiation. Graphite, aluminium, and glass offer minimal protection against gamma rays.

AI explanation

To answer this question, you need to understand the properties of different materials when it comes to shielding against gamma radiation.

Option A) Lead - This option is correct because lead is a dense material that is commonly used for shielding against gamma radiation. It has high atomic number and high density, which makes it effective at absorbing and attenuating gamma rays.

Option B) Graphite - This option is incorrect because graphite is not an effective material for shielding against gamma radiation. Although graphite has a relatively high atomic number, its low density limits its ability to absorb and attenuate gamma rays.

Option C) Aluminium - This option is incorrect because aluminium is not an effective material for shielding against gamma radiation. Aluminium has a low atomic number and low density, which makes it less effective at absorbing and attenuating gamma rays compared to materials like lead.

Option D) Glass - This option is incorrect because glass is not an effective material for shielding against gamma radiation. Glass typically contains elements like silicon and oxygen, which have low atomic numbers and are not effective at absorbing and attenuating gamma rays.

The correct answer is A) lead. This option is correct because lead is a dense material with a high atomic number, making it effective at shielding against gamma radiation.