大学生英语竞赛真题3篇.docxVIP

大学生英语竞赛真题  第一篇：英语阅读理解 Directions: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions below. A new study in the United Kingdom has found that exposure to air pollution during pregnancy could increase the risk of autism in children. The study analyzed medical records of over 500,000 people born between 1990 and 2009 in the United Kingdom, and found that children who were exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide or particulate matter in the womb were more likely to be diagnosed with autism. Nitrogen dioxide is a toxic gas produced by vehicles and other industrial sources, while particulate matter refers to tiny airborne particles, such as soot and dust, that can be inhaled into the lungs. Both pollutants are known to have harmful effects on human health, and have been linked to various respiratory diseases, heart disease, and stroke. The studys lead author, Dr. Heather Volk, said that the findings suggest that air pollution could be a significant environmental risk factor for autism. She also noted that the study did not establish a causal relationship between air pollution and autism, but that the association was strong and consistent. Other experts have cautioned that the study has limitations, and that more research is needed to confirm the link between air pollution and autism. They also noted that air pollution is only one of many factors that may influence the development of autism, which is a complex neurological disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interactions. However, the study adds to a growing body of evidence that environmental factors, such as air pollution, may play a role in the development of autism. Previous studies have linked autism to exposure to toxins, such as lead and mercury, and to prenatal factors, such as maternal infection and stress. Questions: 1. What did the study in the United Kingdom find about air pollution and autism? 2. What are nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter, and what are thei