Radiation shielding refers to the use of materials to protect people and the environment from harmful radiation. This radiation can come from various sources, including nuclear reactors, medical equipment, and cosmic rays. Shielding materials, such as lead, concrete, or specialized plastics, absorb or deflect radiation, reducing exposure levels. The effectiveness of radiation shielding depends on the type of radiation being blocked. For example, alpha particles can be stopped by a sheet of paper, while gamma rays require denser materials like lead or thick concrete. Proper shielding is essential in industries like healthcare and nuclear energy to ensure safety.