Full Name: ……………………………………
Make-up Exam/ Semester 5
Read the text below and answer the corresponding questions:
In the throes of the 21st century, humanity finds itself at a crossroads — a juncture where the
trajectory of energy consumption meets the imperative for environmental stewardship. The
emergence of renewable energy sources stands as a beacon of hope, promising a sustainable and
cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. This paradigm shift is not merely confined to
technological advancements but encompasses a broader transformation in policies, economic
models, and societal perspectives.
At the forefront of this revolution is solar energy, a marvel of photovoltaic technology that converts
sunlight into electricity. Solar panels, composed of semiconductor materials, capture photons and
generate a flow of electrons, thus producing a direct current that can be harnessed for power. The
scalability and versatility of solar power make it a cornerstone in the pursuit of decentralized and eco-
friendly energy solutions.
Simultaneously, wind power has surged into prominence with towering wind turbines punctuating
landscapes worldwide. These giants convert the kinetic energy of moving air into electrical power
through the rotation of turbine blades. As wind energy matures, advancements in design and
efficiency continue to enhance its viability, even in areas with relatively modest wind speeds.
The earth beneath our feet harbors a trove of thermal energy waiting to be tapped. Geothermal
energy exploits the Earth's internal heat, harnessed through the extraction of steam or hot water
from reservoirs beneath the surface. This form of renewable power not only provides a constant
source of energy but also serves as a reliable base-load power option, contributing to grid stability.
Hydropower, a venerable player in the renewable energy landscape, capitalizes on the gravitational
force of flowing water to generate electricity. From large-scale dams to run-of-river installations,
hydropower projects exhibit diverse configurations, addressing the energy needs of both urban and
rural settings. However, concerns about environmental impact and ecosystem disruption necessitate
a nuanced approach to hydropower development.
Governments across the globe have recognized the urgency of transitioning towards renewable
energy, spurring investments, incentivizing research, and establishing ambitious targets. Yet,
challenges persist. The intermittent nature of some renewable sources, energy storage limitations,
and the need for infrastructural overhauls pose formidable obstacles. Furthermore, the economic
implications of this transition, including job displacement in traditional energy sectors and the
financial burden of new technologies, require careful consideration.
As we stand on the cusp of a renewable renaissance, the choices we make today will reverberate
across generations. The promise of a greener and sustainable future is within reach, but it demands
concerted efforts, interdisciplinary collaborations, and an unwavering commitment to balancing
progress with environmental responsibility.
Comprehension questions (10 pts)
1- Discuss the technological principles underlying solar energy and its significance in the quest
for sustainable power.
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2- Examine the advancements in wind power technology and how they contribute to the
scalability and efficiency of this renewable energy source.
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3- Evaluate the advantages and challenges associated with geothermal energy, emphasizing its
role in providing base-load power.
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4- Discuss the technological principles underlying solar energy and its significance in the quest
for sustainable power.
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5- Examine the advancements in wind power technology and how they contribute to the
scalability and efficiency of this renewable energy source.
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Vocabulary (5PTS)
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate words from the given list:
Solution, impact, intermittent, potential, challenges
1- Renewable energy sources offer a promising ________ for reducing carbon emissions and
mitigating climate change.
2- The ________ of solar power lies in its ability to provide clean and abundant energy, suitable
for both urban and rural areas.
3- Concerns about environmental ________ and ecosystem disruption highlight the importance
of a balanced approach to hydropower development.
4- The ________ nature of some renewable sources, such as solar and wind, poses challenges
for continuous power generation.
5- Energy storage solutions are crucial to address the ________ of renewable energy sources
and ensure a stable and reliable power supply.
Grammar (10 PTS)
Complete the following sentences with the following linking words:
Despite, However, Nevertheless, In spite of, yet.
1- __________ the challenging weather conditions, the team successfully completed the
outdoor construction project.
2- She studied diligently for the exam; __________, she didn't perform as well as she had
hoped.
3- The new software update brought several improvements; __________, some users
experienced compatibility issues.
4- __________ having limited resources, the small startup managed to launch a successful
marketing campaign.
5- The event organizers had taken all precautions; __________, a few unexpected issues still
arose during the conference.
Complete each sentence by choosing the appropriate past modal verb from the list provided.
could have, must have, should have, might have, would have
1- She left her keys on the kitchen counter; she __________ forgotten them.
2- Despite the traffic, we __________ arrived on time if we had left earlier.
3- I suggested that he __________ double-checked the document before submitting it.
4- They missed the flight because they __________ checked the departure time.
5- The professor was disappointed that the students __________ reviewed the assignment
guidelines more thoroughly.
Writing (15 PTS)
Write a well-developed essay on ONE of the following essays:
The role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of education."
"The environmental impact of various renewable energy sources."
