Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-92

Biomass is a fascinating form of (21) __________ energy. It is derived from organic matter, which means any material that comes from recently living plants or animals. The basic idea is to use this organic material as a fuel. Unlike fossil fuels, which take millions of years to form, biomass is part of the natural carbon cycle, making it a constantly available energy source.

There are many different materials that can be used for biomass energy. Common examples include wood from forests, specific crops grown for energy production like corn or sugarcane, and even waste from farms or cities. For instance, agricultural residue like straw, or organic garbage from our homes, can be converted into useful energy instead of being thrown away.

The most common way to convert biomass into energy is through direct combustion. In this process, the biomass is burned to produce heat. This heat is often used to boil water, which creates high-pressure steam. This steam can then be used to turn a turbine, which powers a generator to generate electricity for homes and industries.

Using biomass has several advantages. Because it is part of a quick carbon cycle, it is considered a cleaner option than burning fossil fuels, which release ancient carbon into the atmosphere. It also provides a smart way to manage waste. By converting garbage and agricultural leftovers into power, we reduce the amount of material going into landfills. (22) __________ is a significant environmental benefit.

Hardly ever (23) __________ a single energy source offer so many benefits, from being renewable to helping with waste management. (24) __________, biomass is a vital component of the global effort to switch to more sustainable energy systems, helping to create a healthier planet for future generations.

The bustling rhythm of city life often comes with an unseen, yet pervasive, environmental challenge: noise pollution. Far more than just an annoyance, this constant assault of unwanted sounds is increasingly recognized globally as a significant public health issue. From the roar of traffic to the incessant hum of construction sites and the blare of loudspeakers, urban centers worldwide grapple with excessive noise levels. Unlike other forms of pollution, noise often goes unnoticed as a serious threat, yet its impact on our well-being can be just as profound, silently eroding our quality of life.

In Vietnamese cities, this issue resonates deeply, forming an inescapable part of daily existence. The cacophony of vehicle horns, a frequent and often unregulated practice, combined with ubiquitous promotional loudspeakers, creates a constant, high-decibel backdrop. Whether navigating busy streets or simply trying to relax at home, residents are routinely exposed to sound levels that exceed comfortable limits. This relentless sonic environment, while perhaps normalized for many, highlights a specific challenge requiring localized solutions and greater public awareness to mitigate its widespread effects.

But why should a 14-15 year old care about the constant drone of traffic or the blare of a loudspeaker? [I] This invisible form of pollution can severely affect your ability to concentrate, especially during study time or while trying to focus in class. Beyond just distraction, continuous exposure to high noise levels can elevate stress hormones, disrupt sleep patterns, and even contribute to increased anxiety. For young minds, an environment rich in unwanted noise hinders learning and can make it harder to thrive.

Recognizing the escalating problem, many urban areas, including those in Vietnam, are implementing measures to curb noise pollution. [II] In Vietnam, for instance, regulations like Decree 100/2019/ND-CP penalize the misuse of vehicle horns, aiming to bring order to the chaotic soundscape. Beyond specific laws, broader urban planning strategies, such as creating green buffer zones, promoting quieter transportation options, and enforcing stricter construction noise limits, are crucial. While challenging in dense cities, these efforts are vital steps towards creating more serene and livable environments for everyone.

Ultimately, understanding noise pollution means recognizing it as more than just background annoyance; it's a silent threat to our collective health and well-being. For young people, being aware of how daily noise exposure affects concentration, stress, and sleep is the first step towards advocating for change. [III] By supporting efforts to reduce unnecessary noise and understanding its impact, we can all contribute to fostering quieter, healthier urban spaces. The goal is not silence, but a balanced soundscape promoting a better quality of life for all, paving the way for a calmer, more focused future. [IV]