Nghe TOEFL

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Narrator: Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're going to talk about urban heat islands, a phenomenon where cities are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. One major cause is the replacement of natural surfaces with materials like asphalt and concrete, which absorb and retain heat. Another factor is the lack of vegetation, which normally provides shade and cools the air through evapotranspiration. Additionally, waste heat from vehicles, air conditioners, and industrial processes adds to the effect. But here's an interesting point: not all areas within a city experience the same intensity. For example, parks and green spaces can be several degrees cooler than nearby dense commercial districts. This has led to urban planning strategies, such as planting more trees and using reflective roofing materials, to mitigate the heat. However, these solutions often require significant investment and community support. So, while the problem is well understood, implementing effective measures remains a challenge.