PRACTICE

Geysers: Steam Power in Nature

[1] Old Faithful is a geyser located in Yellowstone National Park in the western United States, primarily in the state of Wyoming. Founded in 1872, it was the first national park in the U.S., and it is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots.

[2] Old Faithful got its name because it erupts with regularity. Its eruptions occur approximately every 90 minutes. They last for about 1-5 minutes. The height of the eruptions can reach up to 180 feet. When Old Faithful erupts, it shoots out a combination of hot water and steam. The steam is a result of the hot water beneath the Earth's surface turning into vapor as it reaches the surface.

[3] Scientists believe that the eruptions of Old Faithful are caused by the underground heating of water from a chamber of hot rocks. As the water heats up, steam builds up and pressure increases until the geyser erupts. The water in the eruption can reach temperatures of up to 204 degrees Fahrenheit.

[4] While the steam from Old Faithful is an impressive sight, it's important to note that it can also be dangerous. Visitors can watch from a safe distance. The geyser is surrounded by a boardwalk that allows visitors to view the eruption from multiple angles. Park rangers also provide predictions for the next eruption time, so visitors can plan their visit accordingly.

[5] Overall, Old Faithful is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Yellowstone National Park. Its regular eruptions, impressive height, and unique geology make it a true wonder of nature. The steam from Old Faithful is a reminder of the powerful forces at work beneath the Earth's surface and an example of the beauty and wonder of nature.

INSTRUCTIONS: Answer the questions based on the reading "Geysers: Steam Power in Nature".

1. What is the topic of the story?
(A) hot springs and mud pots
(B) generators
(C) Yellowstone National Park
(D) steam geysers

2. What is the main idea of the story?
(A) Yellowstone National Park is a wonder of nature located mostly in the state of Wyoming.
(B) "Old Faithful" is one of the most famous and most interesting steam geysers in the United States.
(C) Steam geysers can be dangerous, and visitors must stay back so they are not injured.
(D) The steam from Old Faithful can reach heights of over 100 feet and is a striking part of the eruption.

3. In paragraph 2, what helps you to understand the word regularity?
(A) up to 180 feet
(B) every 90 minutes
(C) lasts about 1-5 minutes
(D) a combination of hot water and steam

4. True or false? The water in the eruption is dangerously hot.
(A) True
(B) False

5. Scientists believe that the eruptions of Old Faithful are caused by ...
(A) nearby earthquakes that break open the ground
(B) a machine to entertain park visitors
(C) a broken pipe that moves steam to heat the park buildings
(D) the underground heating of water from a chamber of hot rocks

6. Look in paragraph 4 for the term park ranger. This probably means ...
(A) someone whose job is to take care of a forest, national park, or state park
(B) a vehicle that people use to drive around the park
(C) a parking lot inside the park where it's safe to leave your vehicle
(D) traditional songs that parents teach their children about history

7. Look in paragraph 5 for the term must-see. This probably means ...
(A) it is required or necessary
(B) it is forbidden or not allowed
(C) it is unknown or hidden
(D) it is highly recommended or suggested