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Acid rain

Переведите письменно текст с английского языка на русский, обращая внимание пассивный залог глаголов.

Mars

Mars is a planet which at present attracts attention of the astronomers of the whole world. It is observed through powerful telescopes and is analyzed by photographic and spectral means. There are periods when the conditions for studying this planet are more favorable than at any other time. It is a well known fact that every two years and two months Mars is particularly close to the Earth. Being in this position it is carefully observed and studied. It was shown by observation that Mars is similar to the Earth. It is surrounded with atmosphere. There are seasonal chants on the planet, but being farther from the Sun than the Earth Mars is supplied with less heat than our planet.

In winter white spots of snow are formed at the poles. When the snow is melting in spring green spots appear that are moving to the equator. Because of their being green some astronomers are sure that there is plant life on Mars.

1. Why and how is Mars observed?

2. What was shown by observation?

3. Why some astronomers are sure that there is plant life on Mars?

Acid rain is caused by burning coal or oil. When either fuel is burned, it releases poisonous (ядовитый) gases which are carried up into the atmosphere and sometimes transported long distances.

Over 3,000 research projects are carried out to look into acid rain, and a decision to solve the problem is taken in most of the western European countries. Measures were taken in Scandinavia and in Central Europe to stop the pollution before it has destroyed the environment. Diplomatic campaigns are launched to convince other countries that the problem has to be considered as a major ecological threat.

'Five years ago this issue was not treated seriously,' says one leading environmental group, 'but now that damage is reported in large areas of forest and lakeland, our politicians are forced to take action. This problem must be solved quickly: if governments do nothing, they will be faced in two or three years' time with the accusation (обвинение) that they have allowed our forests to die.'

Uncle: In one word, when are you going to pay your debts?

Nephew: Oh, presently, dear uncle. I will do it as soon as I receive the money which will be paid by the publisher if my novel is accepted.

Uncle: Do you think it will be accepted, young man?

Nephew: No doubt, it will. I'm going to send it as soon as the work is finished which I will begin the moment I have found a suitable subject and the necessary inspiration.

III.Supplementary reading

1. Where Are We Going?

In 1829, when Stephenson entered his invention, the steam engine, people were shocked to find that it was possible to travel at a dangerous speed of 36 m. p. h. The greatest number of people was against the introduction of the railways into Britain. Trains were considered to be dangerous and it was said that they frightened cows and hens, killed birds with their smoke, and set houses on fire with their sparks.

On the other hand, communication was certainly helped by the railways. The tracks provid­ed work for thousands and transporting people and goods was made easier.

How much further can transport be developed?

Apparently more and more means of transport are invented. For example, twenty years ago Anthony Hawker bought a house with a moat (ров (с водой)) around it which he used as a testing place for models of his latest inven­tion, a small hovercraft (транспортное средство на воздушной подушке), and his friends laughed.

"I was never so laughed at in my life. Everyone thought I was mad. I was told it was totally impossible. Everyone said it wouldn't work," he said. But it did work and the result is a nice hovercraft. Mean­while Anthony Hawker is not idle; a flying saucer will be worked by him. It will probably work.

The hovercraft and the flying saucer will probably be considered as a necessity in everyday life in thirty years’ time. Have we any right to stop scientific research because we feel it to be dangerous or ridiculous?

Should we be more aware of the effects that develop­ment in travel is having on us? How small can we make our world?

3. A Bundle of Sticks

An old man had several sons who were always quarrelling. One day the sons were called before their father. A bundle of sticks was given to them and they were ordered to break it. Each of the sons tried with all his strength, but no one could break the bundle. Then the old man untied the bundle, and each son was given one stick. Of course, the sticks were easily broken, "My sons", said their father, "if you live in friendship and help each other, you will always be strong and you need not be afraid of any enemy."

УЭ – 6

Дата добавления: 2015-05-31