Narrator: Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're going to talk about urban heat islands, a phenomenon where cities are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. This happens because concrete, asphalt, and buildings absorb and re-radiate solar heat more than natural landscapes like forests or fields. Also, human activities, such as running cars and air conditioners, generate additional heat. One surprising factor is that the heat island effect can influence local weather, potentially increasing rainfall downwind of the city. To mitigate this, cities have adopted strategies like planting trees on streets, creating green roofs, and using reflective materials on pavements. These measures not only cool the air but also reduce energy consumption for cooling. However, implementation costs and maintenance can be challenging for many municipalities. Nevertheless, as global temperatures rise, addressing urban heat islands becomes increasingly critical for public health and sustainability.
❓ Question According to the professor, what is one surprising consequence of urban heat islands?
A. They increase the need for air conditioning.
B. They can lead to higher rainfall in areas near the city.
C. They cause more solar radiation to be absorbed by rural areas.
D. They reduce the effectiveness of green roofs.
✅ Correct Answer
They can lead to higher rainfall in areas near the city.
TOEFL Listening Tips
Skim the questions first to predict the content
Watch for signal words in lectures and conversations (however, actually, in fact)
For main idea questions, focus on the beginning; for detail questions, focus on examples and data
For attitude questions, pay attention to the speaker's tone and word choice
Take notes on keywords; don't try to write down every word
