Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today, we're discussing the concept of 'peak water', which is similar to 'peak oil'. It refers to the point at which the availability of fresh water in a region begins to decline, not necessarily because of physical scarcity, but due to economic and environmental limits. For example, in the Colorado River basin, over-allocation of water rights has led to a situation where demand exceeds supply. The river's flow has been decreasing due to climate change, and the aquifers are being depleted faster than they can recharge. Some scientists argue that we've already passed peak water for many regions, meaning we must adapt by improving water efficiency and recycling. Others, however, believe that technological innovations, like desalination, can push this peak further into the future. The key takeaway is that water management is not just about finding new sources, but also about changing our consumption patterns.
❓ 문제 What is the main point the professor makes about 'peak water'?
A. A) It is caused only by physical water scarcity.
B. B) It is a concept similar to peak oil, but it involves economic and environmental limits.
C. C) It can be solved entirely by desalination technology.
D. D) It means that water is no longer available in any region.
✅ 정답
B) It is a concept similar to peak oil, but it involves economic and environmental limits.
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