Unit 6 Space and beyond
Ⅰ.阅读理解(每题2.5分,共30分)
A
We have all experienced the force of gravity.It is what happens to you when you jump up into the air.Disappointingly,we tend to fall right back down to the ground.But what if we could switch gravity off What will happen if gravity vanishes
Buckey,an astronomer,says that our bodies are adapted to an Earth-like gravitational environment.If we spend time living where gravity is different,such as on board a space station,our bodies will change.
It is now an established fact that astronauts lose bone mass and muscle strength in space,
and their sense of balance changes due to the absence of gravity.There are also other problems.
For reasons not entirely clear,their red blood cell count falls.Wounds take longer to heal and the immune (免疫) system loses its strength.Even sleep is disturbed if gravity is weak or absent.
That is just what happens after a short visit to space.“What if you were to grow up without gravity ” Buckey asks.“What about the systems that depend on gravity like your muscles,or your balance system,or your heart and blood vessels ” There is good reason to believe the human body would develop differently.
Karen Masters has explored the immediate physical consequences of losing gravity.The first problem is that Earth is rotating at a high speed.Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans,rivers and lakes would be the first things to drift away into space.“A lack of gravity would eventually destroy our very planet,” writes Masters.“Earth itself would most likely break apart into pieces and float off into space.”
A similar fate would happen to the sun.Without the force of gravity to hold it together,the intense pressures at its core would cause it to burst open in an explosion.The same thing would happen to all the other stars in the universe.However,because they are so far away,it would be years before the light from their death reached you.
( )1.What effects will the lack of gravity have on astronauts
[A] Their sense of balance will lose.
[B] Their red blood cell count will decrease.
[C] Their wound will no longer heal.
[D] Their immune system will not work.
( )2.What will happen if gravity stops working according to Karen Masters
[A] Human body on Earth will develop differently.
[B] Earth will rotate at its highest speed.
[C] Atmosphere and water on Earth will travel away into space.
[D] Earth will break down into pieces and float off into space.
( )3.What may happen to the sun after it loses its gravity
[A] It will hold the universe together.
[B] Its core will drift away into space.
[C] The light from its death will reach Earth quickly.
[D] The pressure of its core may lead to its burst.
( )4.Where can we most probably read the passage
[A] In a science magazine.
[B] In a guidebook.
[C] In a short story.
[D] In an environment report.
B
A satellite is an object in space that orbits around another.It has two kinds — natural satellites and artificial satellites.The moon is a natural satellite that moves around Earth while artificial satellites are those made by man.
Despite their widespread impact on daily life,artificial satellites mainly depend on different complicated make-up.On the outside,they may look like a wheel,equipped with solar panels or sails.Inside,the satellites contain mission-specific scientific instruments,which include whatever tools the satellites need to perform their work.Among them,high-resolution cameras and communication electronics are typical ones.Besides,the part that carries the load and holds all the parts together is called the bus.
Artificial satellites operate in a systematic way just like puters function as the satellite’s brain,which receive information,interpret it,and send messages back to Earth.
Advanced digital cameras serve as the satellite’s eyes.Sensors are other important parts that not only recognise light,heat,and gases,but also record changes in what is being observed.
Radios on the satellite send information back to Earth.Solar panels provide electrical power for the computers and other equipment,as well as the power to move the satellite forwards.
Artificial satellites use gravity to stay in their orbits.Earth’s gravity pulls everything towards the centre of the planet.To stay in Earth’s orbit,the speed of a satellite must adjust to the tiniest changes in the pull of gravity.The satellite’s speed works against Earth’s gravity just enough so that it doesn’t go speeding into space or fall back to Earth.
Rockets carry satellites to different types and heights of orbits,based on the tasks they need to perform.Satellites closer to Earth are in low-earth orbit.The closer to Earth,the stronger the gravity is.Therefore,these satellites must travel at a very high speed to keep from falling back to Earth,while higher-orbiting satellites can travel more slowly.
( )5.What is Paragraph 2 of the text mainly about
[A] The appearance of artificial satellites.
[B] The components of artificial satellites.
[C] The basic function of artificial satellites.
[D] The specific mission of artificial satellites.
( )6.What is the role of computers in artificial satellites
[A] Providing electrical power.
[B] Processing information received.
[C] Monitoring space environment.
[D] Recording changes observed.
( )7.How do artificial satellites stay in their orbits
[A] By relying on powerful rockets to get out of gravity.
[B] By orbiting at a fixed speed regardless of gravity’s pull.
[C] By changing speed constantly based on the pull of gravity.
[D] By resisting the pull of gravity with advanced technologies.
( )8.Why do satellites in higher-earth orbit travel more slowly
[A] They have weaker pull of gravity in higher orbits.
[B] They take advantage of rockets more effectively.
[C] They are more affected by Earth’s gravity.
[D] They are equipped with more advanced instruments.
C
Why should mankind explore space Why should money,time and effort be spent exploring and researching something with so few apparent benefits Why should resources be spent on space rather than on conditions and people on Earth These are questions that,
understandably,are very often asked.
Perhaps the best answer lies in our genetic makeup as human beings.What drove our ancestors to move from the trees into the plains or into all possible areas and environments
The wider the spread of a species is,the better its chance of survival will be.Perhaps the best reason for exploring space is this genetic tendency to expand wherever possible.
Nearly every successful civilisation has explored,because by doing so,any dangers in surrounding areas can be identified and prepared for.Without knowledge,we may be completely destroyed by the dangers.With knowledge,we can lessen the effects.
Exploration also allows minerals and other potential resources to be found.Even if we have no immediate need of them,they will perhaps be useful later.Resources may be more than physical possessions.Knowledge and techniques have been acquired through exploration.The techniques may have medical applications which can improve the length and quality of our lives.We have already benefited from some spin-offs of space exploration.The technical improvements in earthquake prediction,in satellites for weather forecasting and in communication systems have long been in effect.
While many resources are spent on what seems a small return,the exploration of space allows creative,brave and intelligent members of our species to focus on what may serve to save us.While space may hold many wonders and explanations of how the universe was formed or how it works,it also holds dangers.The dangers exist,but knowledge can help human beings to survive.Without the ability to reach out across space,the chance to save ourselves might not exist.
( )9.What might be the key answer to the questions mentioned in Paragraph 1
[A] Human nature.
[B] Knowledge.
[C] Civilisation.
[D] Potential dangers.
( )10.What does the underlined word “spin-offs” in Paragraph 4 mean
[A] Applications.
[B] Shortcomings.
[C] Advantages.
[D] Derivatives.
( )11.In which situation may this text be applied properly
[A] A private conversation.
[B] A class presentation.
[C] A cartoon picture.
[D] A fashion review.
( )12.Which can be a suitable title for the text
[A] How Knowledge Benefits Us
[B] What Humans Spread for
[C] Why to Explore Space
[D] How Humans Save Ourselves
Ⅱ.完形填空(每题1分,共15分)
Rockets were probably invented by accident about 2,000 years ago.The Chinese had a form of gunpowder which was put in bamboo tubes and thrown into fires to make 1 during festivals.Perhaps some of the tubes jumped out of the fire instead of exploding in it,the Chinese 2 that the gunpowder escaping from the tube could lift it into the air.The idea of rocket was 3 .
The first 4 use of rockets was in 1232.The Song Dynasty was at war with the Mongols.During the 5 of Kaifeng,the Song army 6 “arrows of flying fire”.The tubes were 7 to a long stick which helped keep the rocket moving in a straight direction.
8 the Mongols learnt how to make rockets themselves and it is possible that they
9 them to Europe.Between the 13th and 15th centuries there were many rocket
10 in England,France and Italy.They were used for military purposes.One Italian scientist even invented a rocket which could travel over the surface of water and hit a(n) 11 ship.
Not everybody wanted to use rockets in battles.A famous Chinese government official invented a 12 chair.He attached two big kites to the chair,and 47 rockets to the kites.The rockets were lit,and there was a huge explosion and 13 of thick smoke.When the smoke
14 ,the government official and his chair had disappeared.No one knows what happened.
Did the government official die in the explosion Or was he carried kilometres away into space,becoming the world’s first 15
( )1.[A] cuisines [B] decorations
[C] explosions [D] differences
( )2.[A] thought [B] discovered
[C] understood [D] decided
( )3.[A] born [B] burst
[C] found [D] improved
( )4.[A] political [B] official
[C] military [D] scientific
( )5.[A] occupation [B] attack
[C] search [D] battle
( )6.[A] lifted [B] shot
[C] exploded [D] flied
( )7.[A] attached [B] shaken
[C] wrapped [D] blown
( )8.[A] Finally [B] Suddenly
[C] Soon [D] Thus
( )9.[A] delivered [B] threw
[C] passed [D] introduced
( )10.[A] transformations [B] performances
[C] experiments [D] exhibitions
( )11.[A] business [B] official
[C] transportation [D] enemy
( )12.[A] flying [B] diving
[C] surfing [D] blowing
( )13.[A] packs [B] clouds
[C] masses [D] bunches
( )14.[A] faded [B] completed
[C] cleared [D] reflected
( )15.[A] scientist [B] researcher
[C] astronaut [D] manager
Unit 6 Space and beyond
Ⅰ.阅读理解(每题2.5分,共30分)
A
We have all experienced the force of gravity.It is what happens to you when you jump up into the air.Disappointingly,we tend to fall right back down to the ground.But what if we could switch gravity off What will happen if gravity vanishes
Buckey,an astronomer,says that our bodies are adapted to an Earth-like gravitational environment.If we spend time living where gravity is different,such as on board a space station,our bodies will change.
It is now an established fact that astronauts lose bone mass and muscle strength in space,
and their sense of balance changes due to the absence of gravity.There are also other problems.
For reasons not entirely clear,their red blood cell count falls.Wounds take longer to heal and the immune (免疫) system loses its strength.Even sleep is disturbed if gravity is weak or absent.
That is just what happens after a short visit to space.“What if you were to grow up without gravity ” Buckey asks.“What about the systems that depend on gravity like your muscles,or your balance system,or your heart and blood vessels ” There is good reason to believe the human body would develop differently.
Karen Masters has explored the immediate physical consequences of losing gravity.The first problem is that Earth is rotating at a high speed.Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans,rivers and lakes would be the first things to drift away into space.“A lack of gravity would eventually destroy our very planet,” writes Masters.“Earth itself would most likely break apart into pieces and float off into space.”
A similar fate would happen to the sun.Without the force of gravity to hold it together,the intense pressures at its core would cause it to burst open in an explosion.The same thing would happen to all the other stars in the universe.However,because they are so far away,it would be years before the light from their death reached you.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章主要介绍了引力消失会对人体、地球和太阳产生的影响。
( )1.What effects will the lack of gravity have on astronauts
[A] Their sense of balance will lose.
[B] Their red blood cell count will decrease.
[C] Their wound will no longer heal.
[D] Their immune system will not work.
【答案】 B
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第三段中的“For reasons not entirely clear,their red blood cell count falls.”可知,失重对航天员产生的影响是他们的红细胞数量会减少。故选B。
( )2.What will happen if gravity stops working according to Karen Masters
[A] Human body on Earth will develop differently.
[B] Earth will rotate at its highest speed.
[C] Atmosphere and water on Earth will travel away into space.
[D] Earth will break down into pieces and float off into space.
【答案】 C
【解析】 细节理解题。根据倒数第二段第三句可知,地球引力消失后,地球上的大气和水会进入太空。故选C。
( )3.What may happen to the sun after it loses its gravity
[A] It will hold the universe together.
[B] Its core will drift away into space.
[C] The light from its death will reach Earth quickly.
[D] The pressure of its core may lead to its burst.
【答案】 D
【解析】 推理判断题。根据最后一段第一、二句可推知,太阳如果失去引力会发生爆炸。故选D。
( )4.Where can we most probably read the passage
[A] In a science magazine.
[B] In a guidebook.
[C] In a short story.
[D] In an environment report.
【答案】 A
【解析】 推理判断题。通读全文可知,本文讲述了引力消失所带来的后果,属于科学范畴,因此最有可能是在科学杂志上读到这篇文章。故选A。
B
A satellite is an object in space that orbits around another.It has two kinds — natural satellites and artificial satellites.The moon is a natural satellite that moves around Earth while artificial satellites are those made by man.
Despite their widespread impact on daily life,artificial satellites mainly depend on different complicated make-up.On the outside,they may look like a wheel,equipped with solar panels or sails.Inside,the satellites contain mission-specific scientific instruments,which include whatever tools the satellites need to perform their work.Among them,high-resolution cameras and communication electronics are typical ones.Besides,the part that carries the load and holds all the parts together is called the bus.
Artificial satellites operate in a systematic way just like puters function as the satellite’s brain,which receive information,interpret it,and send messages back to Earth.
Advanced digital cameras serve as the satellite’s eyes.Sensors are other important parts that not only recognise light,heat,and gases,but also record changes in what is being observed.
Radios on the satellite send information back to Earth.Solar panels provide electrical power for the computers and other equipment,as well as the power to move the satellite forwards.
Artificial satellites use gravity to stay in their orbits.Earth’s gravity pulls everything towards the centre of the planet.To stay in Earth’s orbit,the speed of a satellite must adjust to the tiniest changes in the pull of gravity.The satellite’s speed works against Earth’s gravity just enough so that it doesn’t go speeding into space or fall back to Earth.
Rockets carry satellites to different types and heights of orbits,based on the tasks they need to perform.Satellites closer to Earth are in low-earth orbit.The closer to Earth,the stronger the gravity is.Therefore,these satellites must travel at a very high speed to keep from falling back to Earth,while higher-orbiting satellites can travel more slowly.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章主要介绍了人造卫星的组成、运行方式和速度等基本
情况。
( )5.What is Paragraph 2 of the text mainly about
[A] The appearance of artificial satellites.
[B] The components of artificial satellites.
[C] The basic function of artificial satellites.
[D] The specific mission of artificial satellites.
【答案】 B
【解析】 段落大意题。根据第二段内容可知,本段主要讲的是人造卫星的组成部分。故选B。
( )6.What is the role of computers in artificial satellites
[A] Providing electrical power.
[B] Processing information received.
[C] Monitoring space environment.
[D] Recording changes observed.
【答案】 B
【解析】 推理判断题。根据第三段第二句可推知,计算机在人造卫星中的作用是处理接收到的信息。故选B。
( )7.How do artificial satellites stay in their orbits
[A] By relying on powerful rockets to get out of gravity.
[B] By orbiting at a fixed speed regardless of gravity’s pull.
[C] By changing speed constantly based on the pull of gravity.
[D] By resisting the pull of gravity with advanced technologies.
【答案】 C
【解析】 细节理解题。根据倒数第二段内容可知,人造卫星是通过在重力的作用下不断改变速度来保持在轨道上的。故选C。
( )8.Why do satellites in higher-earth orbit travel more slowly
[A] They have weaker pull of gravity in higher orbits.
[B] They take advantage of rockets more effectively.
[C] They are more affected by Earth’s gravity.
[D] They are equipped with more advanced instruments.
【答案】 A
【解析】 推理判断题。根据最后一段最后两句可推知,远地轨道上的卫星运行速度较慢是因为它们在远地轨道上的引力较弱。故选A。
C
Why should mankind explore space Why should money,time and effort be spent exploring and researching something with so few apparent benefits Why should resources be spent on space rather than on conditions and people on Earth These are questions that,
understandably,are very often asked.
Perhaps the best answer lies in our genetic makeup as human beings.What drove our ancestors to move from the trees into the plains or into all possible areas and environments
The wider the spread of a species is,the better its chance of survival will be.Perhaps the best reason for exploring space is this genetic tendency to expand wherever possible.
Nearly every successful civilisation has explored,because by doing so,any dangers in surrounding areas can be identified and prepared for.Without knowledge,we may be completely destroyed by the dangers.With knowledge,we can lessen the effects.
Exploration also allows minerals and other potential resources to be found.Even if we have no immediate need of them,they will perhaps be useful later.Resources may be more than physical possessions.Knowledge and techniques have been acquired through exploration.The techniques may have medical applications which can improve the length and quality of our lives.We have already benefited from some spin-offs of space exploration.The technical improvements in earthquake prediction,in satellites for weather forecasting and in communication systems have long been in effect.
While many resources are spent on what seems a small return,the exploration of space allows creative,brave and intelligent members of our species to focus on what may serve to save us.While space may hold many wonders and explanations of how the universe was formed or how it works,it also holds dangers.The dangers exist,but knowledge can help human beings to survive.Without the ability to reach out across space,the chance to save ourselves might not exist.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章介绍了人类探索太空的原因以及探索太空的好处。
( )9.What might be the key answer to the questions mentioned in Paragraph 1
[A] Human nature.
[B] Knowledge.
[C] Civilisation.
[D] Potential dangers.
【答案】 A
【解析】 推理判断题。根据第二段第一句可知,第一段提到的问题的关键答案可能就在于人类自己的基因构成,也就是人类的天性。故选A。
( )10.What does the underlined word “spin-offs” in Paragraph 4 mean
[A] Applications.
[B] Shortcomings.
[C] Advantages.
[D] Derivatives.
【答案】 D
【解析】 猜测词义题。根据画线词所在句及第四段最后一句可知,我们已经从太空探索的一些衍生物中获益,在地震预测、天气预报卫星和通信系统方面的科技进步已经影响深远,因此画线词意为“衍生物”,与D项意思相近。故选D。
( )11.In which situation may this text be applied properly
[A] A private conversation.
[B] A class presentation.
[C] A cartoon picture.
[D] A fashion review.
【答案】 B
【解析】 推理判断题。根据本文内容可知,第一段提出几个问题引起共鸣,后用“These are questions that,understandably,are very often asked.”收尾,接着下文继续展开陈述,告诉我们探索太空是对人类的未来负责,可以帮助我们寻找新能源,确保人类的生存。由此可推知,文章属于演讲类文章,结合选项可知,文章最适合用于课堂演讲。故选B。
( )12.Which can be a suitable title for the text
[A] How Knowledge Benefits Us
[B] What Humans Spread for
[C] Why to Explore Space
[D] How Humans Save Ourselves
【答案】 C
【解析】 标题归纳题。纵观全文,本文介绍了人类探索太空的原因以及好处。由此可知,C项最适合作文章标题。故选C。
Ⅱ.完形填空(每题1分,共15分)
Rockets were probably invented by accident about 2,000 years ago.The Chinese had a form of gunpowder which was put in bamboo tubes and thrown into fires to make 1 during festivals.Perhaps some of the tubes jumped out of the fire instead of exploding in it,the Chinese 2 that the gunpowder escaping from the tube could lift it into the air.The idea of rocket was 3 .
The first 4 use of rockets was in 1232.The Song Dynasty was at war with the Mongols.During the 5 of Kaifeng,the Song army 6 “arrows of flying fire”.The tubes were 7 to a long stick which helped keep the rocket moving in a straight direction.
8 the Mongols learnt how to make rockets themselves and it is possible that they
9 them to Europe.Between the 13th and 15th centuries there were many rocket
10 in England,France and Italy.They were used for military purposes.One Italian scientist even invented a rocket which could travel over the surface of water and hit a(n) 11 ship.
Not everybody wanted to use rockets in battles.A famous Chinese government official invented a 12 chair.He attached two big kites to the chair,and 47 rockets to the kites.The rockets were lit,and there was a huge explosion and 13 of thick smoke.When the smoke
14 ,the government official and his chair had disappeared.No one knows what happened.
Did the government official die in the explosion Or was he carried kilometres away into space,becoming the world’s first 15
[语篇导读] 本文是记叙文。文章讲述了火箭可能是 2 000 年前被偶然发明的,并且介绍了不同国家发明火箭的尝试。
( )1.[A] cuisines [B] decorations
[C] explosions [D] differences
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处是说中国人有一种装在竹管子里的火药,通常在节日期间会被扔进火里制造爆炸(explosions)。故选C。
( )2.[A] thought [B] discovered
[C] understood [D] decided
【答案】 B
【解析】 此处指中国人发现(discovered),从管子中漏出的火药可以把管子送到空中。故选B。
( )3.[A] born [B] burst
[C] found [D] improved
【答案】 A
【解析】 此处指火箭的想法就随之诞生(born)了。故选 A。
( )4.[A] political [B] official
[C] military [D] scientific
【答案】 C
【解析】 根据下面讲宋朝与蒙古人的交战可知,此处指火箭第一次在军事(military)上的使用是在1232年。故选C。
( )5.[A] occupation [B] attack
[C] search [D] battle
【答案】 D
【解析】 此处指在开封战役(battle)中,宋军射出了“飞火之箭”。故选D。
( )6.[A] lifted [B] shot
[C] exploded [D] flied
【答案】 B
【解析】 此处是说宋军射出(shot)了“飞火之箭”。故选B。
( )7.[A] attached [B] shaken
[C] wrapped [D] blown
【答案】 A
【解析】 此处是说这些管子被连接(attached)在一根长杆上,这根长杆帮助火箭沿直线移动。故选A。
( )8.[A] Finally [B] Suddenly
[C] Soon [D] Thus
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处是说很快(Soon),蒙古人学会了自己制造火箭,有可能是他们把火箭引进到了欧洲。故选C。
( )9.[A] delivered [B] threw
[C] passed [D] introduced
【答案】 D
【解析】 此处指蒙古人很快就从宋军那里学会了制造火箭,并有可能将其引进(introduced)到了欧洲。故选D。
( )10.[A] transformations [B] performances
[C] experiments [D] exhibitions
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处是说在13世纪到15世纪之间,英国、法国和意大利进行了许多火箭实验(experiments)。故选C。
( )11.[A] business [B] official
[C] transportation [D] enemy
【答案】 D
【解析】 此处指一位意大利科学家甚至发明了一种可以在水面上飞行并击中敌(enemy)舰的火箭。故选D。
( )12.[A] flying [B] diving
[C] surfing [D] blowing
【答案】 A
【解析】 此处是说一位中国政府官员发明了一把飞(flying)椅。故选A。
( )13.[A] packs [B] clouds
[C] masses [D] bunches
【答案】 B
【解析】 此处指火箭被点燃,发生了巨大的爆炸,浓烟滚滚。clouds of thick smoke意为“浓烟滚滚”。故选B。
( )14.[A] faded [B] completed
[C] cleared [D] reflected
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处是说当烟雾消散(cleared)时,这位官员和他的椅子已经消失了。没人知道当时发生了什么。故选C。
( )15.[A] scientist [B] researcher
[C] astronaut [D] manager
【答案】 C
【解析】 此处是发出疑问,这位官员是不是被带到了数千米外的太空,成了世界上第一位航天员(astronaut) 故选C。
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第
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Unit 6 Space and beyond
题组训练
(限时35分钟 总分45分)
Ⅰ.阅读理解(每题2.5分,共30分)
A
We have all experienced the force of gravity.It is what happens to you when you jump up into the air.Disappointingly,we tend to fall right back down to the ground.But what if we could switch gravity off What will happen if gravity vanishes
Buckey,an astronomer,says that our bodies are adapted to an Earth-like gravitational environment.If we spend time living where gravity is different,such as on board a space station,our bodies will change.
It is now an established fact that astronauts lose bone mass and muscle strength in space,and their sense of balance changes due to the absence of gravity.There are also other problems.For reasons not entirely clear,their red blood cell count falls.Wounds take longer to heal and the immune (免疫) system loses its strength.Even sleep is disturbed if gravity is weak or absent.
That is just what happens after a short visit to space.“What if you were to grow up without gravity ” Buckey asks.“What about the systems that depend on gravity like your muscles,or your balance system,or your heart and blood vessels ” There is good reason to believe the human body would develop differently.
Karen Masters has explored the immediate physical consequences of losing gravity.The first problem is that Earth is rotating at a high speed.
Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans,rivers and lakes would be the first things to drift away into space.“A lack of gravity would eventually destroy our very planet,” writes Masters.“Earth itself would most likely break apart into pieces and float off into space.”
A similar fate would happen to the sun.Without the force of gravity to hold it together,the intense pressures at its core would cause it to burst open in an explosion.The same thing would happen to all the other stars in the universe.However,because they are so far away,it would be years before the light from their death reached you.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章主要介绍了引力消失会对人体、地球和太阳产生的影响。
( )1.What effects will the lack of gravity have on astronauts
[A] Their sense of balance will lose.
[B] Their red blood cell count will decrease.
[C] Their wound will no longer heal.
[D] Their immune system will not work.
B
【解析】 细节理解题。根据第三段中的“For reasons not entirely clear,
their red blood cell count falls.”可知,失重对航天员产生的影响是他们的红细胞数量会减少。故选B。
( )2.What will happen if gravity stops working according to Karen Masters
[A] Human body on Earth will develop differently.
[B] Earth will rotate at its highest speed.
[C] Atmosphere and water on Earth will travel away into space.
[D] Earth will break down into pieces and float off into space.
C
【解析】 细节理解题。根据倒数第二段第三句可知,地球引力消失后,地球上的大气和水会进入太空。故选C。
( )3.What may happen to the sun after it loses its gravity
[A] It will hold the universe together.
[B] Its core will drift away into space.
[C] The light from its death will reach Earth quickly.
[D] The pressure of its core may lead to its burst.
D
【解析】 推理判断题。根据最后一段第一、二句可推知,太阳如果失去引力会发生爆炸。故选D。
( )4.Where can we most probably read the passage
[A] In a science magazine.
[B] In a guidebook.
[C] In a short story.
[D] In an environment report.
A
【解析】 推理判断题。通读全文可知,本文讲述了引力消失所带来的后果,属于科学范畴,因此最有可能是在科学杂志上读到这篇文章。故选A。
B
A satellite is an object in space that orbits around another.It has two kinds — natural satellites and artificial satellites.The moon is a natural satellite that moves around Earth while artificial satellites are those made by man.
Despite their widespread impact on daily life,artificial satellites mainly depend on different complicated make-up.On the outside,they may look like a wheel,equipped with solar panels or sails.Inside,the satellites contain mission-specific scientific instruments,which include whatever tools the satellites need to perform their work.Among them,high-resolution cameras and communication electronics are typical ones.Besides,the part that carries the load and holds all the parts together is called the bus.
Artificial satellites operate in a systematic way just like humans.
Computers function as the satellite’s brain,which receive information,
interpret it,and send messages back to Earth.Advanced digital cameras serve as the satellite’s eyes.Sensors are other important parts that not only recognise light,heat,and gases,but also record changes in what is being observed.Radios on the satellite send information back to Earth.Solar panels provide electrical power for the computers and other equipment,
as well as the power to move the satellite forwards.
Artificial satellites use gravity to stay in their orbits.Earth’s gravity pulls everything towards the centre of the planet.To stay in Earth’s orbit,the speed of a satellite must adjust to the tiniest changes in the pull of gravity.
The satellite’s speed works against Earth’s gravity just enough so that it doesn’t go speeding into space or fall back to Earth.
Rockets carry satellites to different types and heights of orbits,based on the tasks they need to perform.Satellites closer to Earth are in low-earth orbit.The closer to Earth,the stronger the gravity is.Therefore,these satellites must travel at a very high speed to keep from falling back to Earth,while higher-orbiting satellites can travel more slowly.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章主要介绍了人造卫星的组成、运行方式和速度等基本情况。
( )5.What is Paragraph 2 of the text mainly about
[A] The appearance of artificial satellites.
[B] The components of artificial satellites.
[C] The basic function of artificial satellites.
[D] The specific mission of artificial satellites.
B
【解析】 段落大意题。根据第二段内容可知,本段主要讲的是人造卫星的组成部分。故选B。
( )6.What is the role of computers in artificial satellites
[A] Providing electrical power.
[B] Processing information received.
[C] Monitoring space environment.
[D] Recording changes observed.
B
【解析】 推理判断题。根据第三段第二句可推知,计算机在人造卫星中的作用是处理接收到的信息。故选B。
( )7.How do artificial satellites stay in their orbits
[A] By relying on powerful rockets to get out of gravity.
[B] By orbiting at a fixed speed regardless of gravity’s pull.
[C] By changing speed constantly based on the pull of gravity.
[D] By resisting the pull of gravity with advanced technologies.
C
【解析】 细节理解题。根据倒数第二段内容可知,人造卫星是通过在重力的作用下不断改变速度来保持在轨道上的。故选C。
( )8.Why do satellites in higher-earth orbit travel more slowly
[A] They have weaker pull of gravity in higher orbits.
[B] They take advantage of rockets more effectively.
[C] They are more affected by Earth’s gravity.
[D] They are equipped with more advanced instruments.
A
【解析】 推理判断题。根据最后一段最后两句可推知,远地轨道上的卫星运行速度较慢是因为它们在远地轨道上的引力较弱。故选A。
C
Why should mankind explore space Why should money,time and effort be spent exploring and researching something with so few apparent benefits Why should resources be spent on space rather than on conditions and people on Earth These are questions that,understandably,are very often asked.
Perhaps the best answer lies in our genetic makeup as human beings.
What drove our ancestors to move from the trees into the plains or into all possible areas and environments The wider the spread of a species is,the better its chance of survival will be.Perhaps the best reason for exploring space is this genetic tendency to expand wherever possible.
Nearly every successful civilisation has explored,because by doing so,any dangers in surrounding areas can be identified and prepared for.
Without knowledge,we may be completely destroyed by the dangers.
With knowledge,we can lessen the effects.
Exploration also allows minerals and other potential resources to be found.Even if we have no immediate need of them,they will perhaps be useful later.Resources may be more than physical possessions.Knowledge and techniques have been acquired through exploration.The techniques may have medical applications which can improve the length and quality of our lives.We have already benefited from some spin-offs of space exploration.
The technical improvements in earthquake prediction,in satellites for weather forecasting and in communication systems have long been in effect.
While many resources are spent on what seems a small return,the exploration of space allows creative,brave and intelligent members of our species to focus on what may serve to save us.While space may hold many wonders and explanations of how the universe was formed or how it works,it also holds dangers.The dangers exist,but knowledge can help human beings to survive.Without the ability to reach out across space,the chance to save ourselves might not exist.
[语篇导读] 本文是说明文。文章介绍了人类探索太空的原因以及探索太空的好处。
( )9.What might be the key answer to the questions mentioned in Paragraph 1
[A] Human nature.
[B] Knowledge.
[C] Civilisation.
[D] Potential dangers.
A
【解析】 推理判断题。根据第二段第一句可知,第一段提到的问题的关键答案可能就在于人类自己的基因构成,也就是人类的天性。故选A。
( )10.What does the underlined word “spin-offs” in Paragraph 4 mean
[A] Applications.
[B] Shortcomings.
[C] Advantages.
[D] Derivatives.
D
【解析】 猜测词义题。根据画线词所在句及第四段最后一句可知,我们已经从太空探索的一些衍生物中获益,在地震预测、天气预报卫星和通信系统方面的科技进步已经影响深远,因此画线词意为“衍生物”,与D项意思相近。故选D。
( )11.In which situation may this text be applied properly
[A] A private conversation.
[B] A class presentation.
[C] A cartoon picture.
[D] A fashion review.
B
【解析】 推理判断题。根据本文内容可知,第一段提出几个问题引起共鸣,后用“These are questions that,understandably,are very often asked.”收尾,接着下文继续展开陈述,告诉我们探索太空是对人类的未来负责,可以帮助我们寻找新能源,确保人类的生存。由此可推知,文章属于演讲类文章,结合选项可知,文章最适合用于课堂演讲。故选B。
( )12.Which can be a suitable title for the text
[A] How Knowledge Benefits Us
[B] What Humans Spread for
[C] Why to Explore Space
[D] How Humans Save Ourselves
C
【解析】 标题归纳题。纵观全文,本文介绍了人类探索太空的原因以及好处。由此可知,C项最适合作文章标题。故选C。
Ⅱ.完形填空(每题1分,共15分)
Rockets were probably invented by accident about 2,000 years ago.
The Chinese had a form of gunpowder which was put in bamboo tubes and thrown into fires to make 1 during festivals.Perhaps some of the tubes jumped out of the fire instead of exploding in it,the Chinese 2 that the gunpowder escaping from the tube could lift it into the air.The idea of rocket was 3 .
The first 4 use of rockets was in 1232.The Song Dynasty was at war with the Mongols.During the 5 of Kaifeng,the Song army
6 “arrows of flying fire”.The tubes were 7 to a long stick which helped keep the rocket moving in a straight direction. 8 the Mongols learnt how to make rockets themselves and it is possible that they
9 them to Europe.Between the 13th and 15th centuries there were many rocket 10 in England,France and Italy.They were used for military purposes.One Italian scientist even invented a rocket which could travel over the surface of water and hit a(n) 11 ship.
Not everybody wanted to use rockets in battles.A famous Chinese government official invented a 12 chair.He attached two big kites to the chair,and 47 rockets to the kites.The rockets were lit,and there was a huge explosion and 13 of thick smoke.When the smoke 14 ,the government official and his chair had disappeared.No one knows what happened.Did the government official die in the explosion Or was he carried kilometres away into space,becoming the world’s first 15
[语篇导读] 本文是记叙文。文章讲述了火箭可能是 2 000 年前被偶然发明的,并且介绍了不同国家发明火箭的尝试。
( )1.[A] cuisines [B] decorations
[C] explosions [D] differences
C
【解析】 此处是说中国人有一种装在竹管子里的火药,通常在节日期间会被扔进火里制造爆炸(explosions)。故选C。
( )2.[A] thought [B] discovered
[C] understood [D] decided
B
【解析】 此处指中国人发现(discovered),从管子中漏出的火药可以把管子送到空中。故选B。
( )3.[A] born [B] burst
[C] found [D] improved
A
【解析】 此处指火箭的想法就随之诞生(born)了。故选 A。
( )4.[A] political [B] official
[C] military [D] scientific
C
【解析】 根据下面讲宋朝与蒙古人的交战可知,此处指火箭第一次在军事(military)上的使用是在1232年。故选C。
( )5.[A] occupation [B] attack
[C] search [D] battle
D
【解析】 此处指在开封战役(battle)中,宋军射出了“飞火之箭”。故选D。
( )6.[A] lifted [B] shot
[C] exploded [D] flied
B
【解析】 此处是说宋军射出(shot)了“飞火之箭”。故选B。
( )7.[A] attached [B] shaken
[C] wrapped [D] blown
A
【解析】 此处是说这些管子被连接(attached)在一根长杆上,这根长杆帮助火箭沿直线移动。故选A。
( )8.[A] Finally [B] Suddenly
[C] Soon [D] Thus
C
【解析】 此处是说很快(Soon),蒙古人学会了自己制造火箭,有可能是他们把火箭引进到了欧洲。故选C。
( )9.[A] delivered [B] threw
[C] passed [D] introduced
D
【解析】 此处指蒙古人很快就从宋军那里学会了制造火箭,并有可能将其引进(introduced)到了欧洲。故选D。
( )10.[A] transformations [B] performances
[C] experiments [D] exhibitions
C
【解析】 此处是说在13世纪到15世纪之间,英国、法国和意大利进行了许多火箭实验(experiments)。故选C。
( )11.[A] business [B] official
[C] transportation [D] enemy
D
【解析】 此处指一位意大利科学家甚至发明了一种可以在水面上飞行并击中敌(enemy)舰的火箭。故选D。
( )12.[A] flying [B] diving
[C] surfing [D] blowing
A
【解析】 此处是说一位中国政府官员发明了一把飞(flying)椅。故选A。
( )13.[A] packs [B] clouds
[C] masses [D] bunches
B
【解析】 此处指火箭被点燃,发生了巨大的爆炸,浓烟滚滚。clouds of thick smoke意为“浓烟滚滚”。故选B。
( )14.[A] faded [B] completed
[C] cleared [D] reflected
C
【解析】 此处是说当烟雾消散(cleared)时,这位官员和他的椅子已经消失了。没人知道当时发生了什么。故选C。
( )15.[A] scientist [B] researcher
[C] astronaut [D] manager
C
【解析】 此处是发出疑问,这位官员是不是被带到了数千米外的太空,成了世界上第一位航天员(astronaut) 故选C。
