Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're going to talk about an interesting phenomenon called 'urban heat islands.' Cities are often warmer than the surrounding rural areas. Why is that? Well, one main reason is the replacement of natural surfaces with asphalt and concrete. These materials absorb and retain heat from the sun much more than vegetation does. Also, buildings and roads trap heat, and the lack of trees reduces shade and evapotranspiration, which naturally cools the air. Another factor is waste heat from cars, air conditioners, and industrial processes. Interestingly, the temperature difference between a city and its surroundings can be as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit on a clear, calm night. This effect has significant implications for energy consumption, as people use more air conditioning, and for public health, especially during heat waves. Some solutions include planting more trees, using reflective materials on roofs, and creating green spaces. However, these measures require careful planning and investment.
❓ 문제 According to the professor, what is one major cause of the urban heat island effect?
A. A. The high altitude of most cities
B. B. The replacement of natural surfaces with concrete and asphalt
C. C. The increase in solar radiation due to ozone depletion
D. D. The lack of wind in urban areas
✅ 정답
B. The replacement of natural surfaces with concrete and asphalt
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
