All fires, whether accidental or planned, produce smoke that can cause health and breathing issues, especially in nearby communities. In a recent study, however, scientists at Stanford University suggested ways to perform controlled burns with greatly reduced health implications. “There is clearly potential for improving controlled burn procedures, such that the health impact is reduced,” said Karl Töpperwien, who is the lead author. “We can essentially kill two birds with one stone — protect ecosystems while simultaneously protecting communities that would be otherwise at risk.”
1.1. What is the main purpose of the Stanford University study?
A To prove the health risks of accidental fires.
B To find ways to make controlled burns safer.
C To identify the most harmful chemicals in smoke.
D To study the ecosystems in fire-prone regions.
解析:选B。B细节理解题。根据第一段中的“...scientists at Stanford University suggested ways to perform controlled burns with greatly reduced health implications”可知,该研究的主要目的是找到方法,使可控燃烧对健康的影响大大降低,即让其更安全。故选B。
2.2. What can be inferred about the new burning method research from the text?
A It has been widely used in various environments.
B It completely eliminates the health risks of smoke.
C It requires collaboration across different research fields.
D It focuses only on protecting forest ecosystems.
解析:选C。C 推理判断题。根据第二段第一句“Töpperwien’s team collaborated with medical researchers, physicists, and chemical researchers”可知,这项新方法的研究需要不同领域研究人员的合作。故选C。
3.3. According to the study, which condition helps reduce PAH emissions?
A Using wood with a moisture content of 20-30%.
B Keeping the oxygen level as high as possible.
C Making the fire burn as hot as possible.
D Using very dry wood for a quick burn.
解析:选A。A细节理解题。根据第三段中的 “The first condition concerns the moisture content of the fuel. They found that the wood should have a moisture content of 20-30%”可知,燃料湿度保持在20%-30%是减少PAH排放的条件之一。故选A。
4.4. What’s Töpperwien’s attitude towards the practical application of controlled burns?
A Cautious.
B Optimistic.
C Anxious.
D Pessimistic.
解析:选B。B 推理判断题。根据最后一段中Töpperwien说的话“but I clearly see a path towards making this technique more workable for a broader range of environmental conditions”但我显然看到了一条能够使这种技术更适用于更多不同环境条件的可行路径,可推断她对于该方法的实际应用持乐观的态度。故选B。