Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-34

Natural gas is a fossil fuel and a non-renewable energy source. It is found deep underground in rock formations or associated with other fossil fuels like coal and petroleum. It is a mixture of gases, with the main component being methane. This gas is colorless, odorless, and lighter than air. For safety reasons, a chemical is added to give it a distinct smell so that leaks can be detected easily.

Once it is extracted from the ground, natural gas needs to be transported to where it will be used. This is often done through (21) __________ vast network of underground pipelines. These pipelines can cross entire countries and even continents, delivering the gas to power plants, factories, and residential areas. This system of transport is very efficient for moving large quantities of the fuel.

One of the most common uses for natural gas is for heating and cooking in homes. It is popular (22) __________ it burns very cleanly and provides instant heat. An energy expert once commented in a report that natural gas (23) __________ a significant improvement over older fuels like wood or coal for domestic use due to lower emissions. It is used in furnaces to warm houses and in stoves for cooking food.

Natural gas is also a major source of fuel for electricity generation. Power plants burn the gas to heat water, creating steam that turns turbines. If engineers were to build a new power plant today, natural gas would be a strong candidate for the primary fuel. Power companies often (24) __________ this fuel to meet high electricity demand quickly because gas-fired plants can be started and stopped more easily than other types.

In conclusion, natural gas is an important part of our global energy supply. However, its use is often considered a double-edged sword; it's cleaner than other fossil fuels but still contributes to climate change. Therefore, while it serves as a crucial 'bridge' fuel, many nations are committed to reducing their long-term dependence on it by investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.

The digital world is increasingly complex, especially what we see online. For years, photos and videos were reliable evidence, but artificial intelligence now challenges that trust. AI-generated images, crafted by sophisticated algorithms, have reached astonishing realism, making them indistinguishable from genuine photographs. This raises a crucial question for everyone navigating the internet: can you truly trust your own eyes anymore when faced with such convincing digital fabrications? [I] The line between reality and simulation has never been blurrier.

These powerful AI tools can produce highly realistic, yet entirely fake, images and even videos, often called 'deepfakes'. [II] This technological leap has profound implications, creating a landscape where visual evidence can be easily manipulated or fabricated, making it harder than ever to distinguish fact from fiction in our digitally saturated world.

The rapid advancements in AI image generation aren't just global; they're actively discussed and experienced locally. In Vietnam, tech communities are keenly aware of these developments, with popular forums like Voz.vn buzzing about the capabilities and potential misuse of tools such as Midjourney. [III] Members share impressive AI-created visuals, debate ethical concerns, and explore the technology's implications for various industries. This local engagement highlights how quickly these powerful tools are integrating into our daily digital lives.

For teenagers, specifically those aged 14-15, understanding this new reality is crucial. You're constantly exposed to vast images through your social media feeds, online news articles, and advertisements. Without realizing it, you could be encountering AI-generated visuals that look perfectly real but are completely fake. [IV] Developing the crucial skill of questioning an image's source, looking for subtle inconsistencies, and verifying information is no longer just a good habit; it’s an essential defense against being misled. Your digital literacy skills are key to navigating this complex visual landscape.

Navigating a world where AI can conjure convincing visuals demands new media literacy. Cultivate healthy skepticism towards every online image, no matter how authentic it appears. Before sharing or believing, pause and consider the source. Does it seem too perfect? Is anything off? These critical thinking habits will empower you to discern truth from sophisticated illusion. In an age where even your own eyes can be deceived, sharpening your analytical skills is your most powerful tool to remain informed and avoid misinformation.