A
Mother Nature is a cruel mistress. Why? Read on to find the answer.
Venice
This iconic city is sinking rapidly. The canals that make up the streets of Venice rise 2 mm every year, making relics(遗迹)of history go under the surface of water and destroying architecture. Experts warn that without intervention(干预), this city will disappear back into the water at an even faster rate, consumed by rising sea level from melting polar, ice caps.
Machu Picchu
These Incan ruins have drawn adventurous tourists into the mountains of South America. The forces of natural erosion(侵蚀)have been accelerated by tourism and this landmark faces severe influence from increasing foot traffic. The Peruvian government suggested a cable car that would cut out the intense hike up to the ruins, making the site instantly accessible to millions, but the future of Machu Picchu remains uncertain.
Glacier National Park
Perhaps you've heard that the ice caps are melting. But nowhere is more apparent in the United States than in Glacier National Park. Estimates indicate that the glaciers that are part of the beauty of this national landmark will disappear entirely in the next two decades.
The Great Barrier Reef
Enjoy the gorgeous coral(珊瑚)reef. Diving deep into the blue sea, you will have a better view of it. Unfortunately, hidden from view beneath the waves, the Great Barrier Reef has been rapidly dying off. Nearly fifty percent of coral which once occupied a large area is gone, destroyed by pollution and disease.
21. What can we learn about Machu Picchu?
A. It is losing its attraction to tourists. B. It's famous for cable cars.
C. It's well preserved by the locals. D. It bears a heavy burden of tourism.
22. Which place probably needs visitors to dive into the water to enjoy its beauty?
A. Venice B. Machu Picchu C. Glacier National Park D. The Great Barrier Reef
23. According to the passage, what do the above attractions have in common?
A. They all have a long history. B. They're all threatened by climate change.
C. They're all in danger of disappearing. D. They're all well-known for natural scenery.
