Task 1 – Long reading

Read the following text about a scientific frontier and answer the 15 questions.

Unveiling the Mysteries of the Deep Sea

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The deep sea, often described as the last true frontier on Earth, remains largely unexplored. Covering over 60% of our planet’s surface and holding more than 95% of its water, this vast realm extends from the edge of continental shelves to the abyssal plains, thousands of meters below the surface. Characterized by extreme pressure, perpetual darkness, and near-freezing temperatures, it is an environment that challenges our understanding of life itself. Despite these harsh conditions, the deep sea teems with an astonishing array of unique and often bizarre life forms, many of which are still unknown to science.

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For centuries, human exploration of the deep sea was limited by technological constraints. Early attempts involved simple dredges and nets, providing only glimpses of the ocean floor. The invention of the submersible, particularly the bathysphere in the 1930s and later the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), revolutionized deep-sea research. These technologies allow scientists to withstand immense pressures, illuminate dark abysses, and collect samples without direct human presence, opening up new avenues for discovery.

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The study of marine biology in the deep sea has revealed ecosystems unlike any found on land or in shallower waters. Hydrothermal vents, for example, are cracks in the seafloor that release superheated, mineral-rich water. Around these vents, chemosynthetic bacteria form the base of an entire food web, supporting communities of giant tube worms, blind shrimp, and unique species of mussels that thrive in the absence of sunlight. These discoveries have fundamentally altered our understanding of life's adaptability and the conditions under which it can exist.

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Despite the scientific wonders, the deep sea faces increasing threats from human activities. Overfishing, particularly bottom trawling, can devastate fragile deep-sea habitats and deplete slow-growing fish populations. Plastic pollution, even in the most remote trenches, is a pervasive problem, harming marine life and contaminating ecosystems. Furthermore, the prospect of deep-sea mining for valuable minerals raises serious environmental concerns about habitat destruction and the potential for long-term damage to these sensitive environments.

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Protecting the deep sea is a monumental task, given its immense size and remoteness. International cooperation is essential for establishing effective conservation strategies and regulating human activities. Creating marine protected areas (MPAs) in deep-sea zones, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and investing in research to better understand these ecosystems are crucial steps. Ultimately, safeguarding the deep sea is not just about preserving its unique biodiversity; it is about protecting a vital part of our global ocean system, which plays a critical role in planetary climate regulation and nutrient cycling.