Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-101

A dome is a beautiful architectural element, famous for its ability to (35) __________ a large area without the need for internal columns. This creates a vast, open, and spacious interior. Essentially, a dome is a three-dimensional arch, rotated 360 degrees around its central vertical axis. It is a self-supporting structure, meaning its own shape gives it strength. The curved surface is not just for appearance; it is key to its stability.

The genius of the dome lies in how it manages weight. The force of gravity pulls the materials downwards, but the dome’s curved shape redirects this force outwards, along its surface. This outward push is known as "thrust." For a dome to be (36) __________ sound, this thrust has to be managed. If it is not properly contained, the base of the dome will spread apart, and the entire structure will collapse.

(37) __________, architects developed clever ways to counter this outward thrust. The base of the dome (38) __________ be supported by very thick, heavy walls or by external supports called buttresses. These elements push back against the dome's outward force, creating a state of equilibrium. The weight is safely channeled downwards into the ground through these strong foundations.

Perhaps (39) __________ example of a dome is the Pantheon in Rome, built nearly 2,000 years ago. Its concrete dome is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world, and it was engineered to (40) __________ its own immense weight. The famous opening at the top, the oculus, actually reduces stress on the structure, (41) __________ also lets in a dramatic beam of light.

In conclusion, the dome is more than just a roof; it is a sophisticated solution to an engineering problem. It showcases a deep understanding of forces and materials. (42) __________ such a perfect blend of artistic beauty and scientific principle in a single architectural form.

In an age where speed is everything, we often choose planes to get from one city to another as quickly as possible. However, a different kind of travel is gaining appreciation: the long-distance train journey. Across the world, people are rediscovering the joy of watching landscapes change from their window seat. In Vietnam, the most iconic example of this is the North-South Railway, also known as the Reunification Express, which offers a unique way to experience the country.

Stretching over 1,700 kilometers, the railway line connects Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, in the north with its largest metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City, in the south. A complete journey on the Reunification Express typically takes around 35 hours. This might seem incredibly long compared to a two-hour flight, but the time is part of the adventure. From the window, passengers witness a spectacular variety of scenery. The train passes through the fertile rice paddies of the Red River Delta, hugs the stunning coastline near Da Nang and the Hai Van Pass, and travels through sleepy villages and bustling towns.

The experience on board is just as important as the views outside. Unlike the impersonal nature of air travel, the train fosters a sense of community. Passengers share food, play cards, and tell stories, creating a lively atmosphere. Both Vietnamese locals and international tourists use the service, offering a chance for genuine cultural exchange. The different seating and sleeping options, from basic hard seats to comfortable soft-sleeper berths, mean that travelers can choose their level of comfort. This allows them to get a more authentic view of daily life in Vietnam.

This slower pace of travel teaches valuable lessons, especially for young people. It requires patience and encourages passengers to be present in the moment, rather than focusing solely on the destination. It also offers a deeper, more meaningful connection to the country, as one can physically see the geography and culture shift from north to south. Furthermore, choosing the train over a domestic flight is a more environmentally conscious decision, as trains generally have a smaller carbon footprint per passenger.

Ultimately, the choice between a plane and the Reunification Express is a choice between efficiency and enrichment. While flying is undoubtedly practical for those short on time, the train provides an unforgettable journey that reveals the heart and soul of Vietnam. It is a reminder that sometimes, the journey itself is the true destination, offering memories and insights that a quick flight simply cannot provide.