Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class.
Today we're going to discuss a surprising factor in climate change: the role of forests. While we often hear that trees absorb carbon dioxide, recent research has shown that forests, especially those in northern latitudes, can actually have a warming effect. How? Well, forests are dark, so they absorb more sunlight than, say, snowy plains or grasslands, which reflect light. This absorption of sunlight warms the local area. In addition, trees release moisture and certain chemicals that can form clouds, but these effects are complex. In tropical forests, the cooling effect from moisture and cloud cover outweighs the warming from darkness. But in boreal forests, where snow is common, the dark trees can make the local climate warmer by reducing the reflection of sunlight. So, when we think about planting trees to combat climate change, we need to consider the location and the net effect on temperature. This is a key lesson for policymakers.
❓ 質問 What is the main point the professor makes about forests and climate?
A. A. All forests help cool the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide.
B. B. The effect of forests on temperature depends on their location and other factors.
C. C. Boreal forests are more effective at cooling than tropical forests.
D. D. Planting trees always reduces global warming.
✅ 正解
B. The effect of forests on temperature depends on their location and other factors.
TOEFL Listening Tips
Skim the questions first to predict the content
Watch for signal words in lectures and conversations (however, actually, in fact)
For main idea questions, focus on the beginning; for detail questions, focus on examples and data
For attitude questions, pay attention to the speaker's tone and word choice
Take notes on keywords; don't try to write down every word