Filling Blank 2 in the Global Warming Passage

The question asks us to choose the most appropriate word to fill in blank number 2 in the provided passage about global warming. Let's examine the relevant sentence:

Scientists say that the rise in the average temperature ranges from 1.8°C to 4°C. This (2) ______ in temperature is called global warming or climate change.

We need a word that fits grammatically and semantically in the blank to refer to the "rise in the average temperature" mentioned in the previous clause. The phrase structure is "This ______ in temperature".

Let's look at the given options for blank (2):

1. High
2. Increase
3. Incline
4. Raise

Now, let's evaluate each option in the context of the sentence:

• High: This word is primarily an adjective meaning "of great vertical extent" or "at or near the top". It does not fit grammatically as a noun to complete the phrase "This ______ in temperature". For example, you wouldn't say "This high in temperature is called global warming".
• Increase: This word can be both a verb and a noun. As a noun, it means "a rise in the amount, number, or degree of something". This fits perfectly both grammatically ("This increase in temperature") and semantically, referring directly to the "rise in the average temperature" discussed. The term "increase in temperature" is standard usage when discussing rising temperatures.
• Incline: This word can be a noun referring to a slope or gradient, or a verb meaning to lean or have a tendency. It does not relate to a change or rise in temperature in this context.
• Raise: This word can also be a verb or a noun. As a noun, it often refers to an increase in salary or level (e.g., "a pay raise"). While related to "rise", "increase" is generally a more common and natural-sounding noun to describe a general rise in a quantity or degree like temperature in a scientific context. "This raise in temperature" is less idiomatic than "This increase in temperature".

Comparing the options, "Increase" is the most suitable word to fill blank (2). It correctly functions as a noun referring to the rise in temperature and fits the standard terminology used when discussing global warming and climate change.

Understanding Global Warming Terminology

The passage uses several key terms related to global warming and climate change. Understanding these terms helps in correctly filling the blanks.

• Global Warming: The gradual increase in the overall temperature of the earth's atmosphere, generally attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide and other pollutants.
• Climate Change: A broader term that refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, which can be caused by both natural processes and human activities.
• Greenhouse Gases: Gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, that absorb and emit radiant energy within the thermal infrared range, causing the greenhouse effect and warming the planet.
• Fossil Fuels: Natural fuels like coal, petroleum, and natural gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms. Burning them releases greenhouse gases.
• Deforestation: The clearing of forests, which contributes to global warming because trees absorb carbon dioxide.

Detailed Passage Analysis (Context for Blank 2)

The passage explains that the Earth's temperature is rising. It then provides a specific range for this rise (1.8°C to 4°C) and states that "This (2) ______ in temperature is called global warming or climate change". The blank clearly needs a noun that refers back to the "rise" mentioned and signifies the state of temperature going up. "Increase" perfectly fulfills this requirement.

Based on the analysis of the options and the context of the passage, the word "Increase" is the most appropriate choice for blank (2).

Revision Table: Key Concepts Reviewed

Additional Information on Temperature Increase and Global Warming

The passage highlights the significant increase in Earth's average temperature as the core issue of global warming. This temperature rise is not uniform across the globe and leads to various impacts.

• Impacts of Temperature Increase: Higher temperatures contribute to melting glaciers and ice sheets, rising sea levels, more frequent and intense heatwaves, changes in precipitation patterns, and disruption of ecosystems. The passage specifically mentions the severe impact on agriculture.
• Human vs. Natural Causes: While Earth's climate has changed naturally throughout history, the current rapid temperature increase is overwhelmingly attributed to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. These activities release large amounts of greenhouse gases, enhancing the natural greenhouse effect.
• Mitigation Measures: The passage mentions that the rate of global warming can be checked through measures like recycling and reusing. Other important measures include transitioning to renewable energy sources (solar, wind), improving energy efficiency, preserving forests, and developing technologies to capture carbon dioxide.

Understanding the vocabulary and concepts presented in the passage is crucial for answering questions related to it.