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Reading answers with explanations

Multilevel · Part 5 · Multilevel Practice Test 20

Penguins’ anti-ice trick revealed: Reading answers

Answers to questions 29–35 (7 in all), each with why it is right.

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Read the whole passage and answer in the exam interface, timed as on the day.

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The passage opens

“What we learn here is how penguins combine oil and nano-structures on the feathers to produce this effect to perfection,” explains Kavehpour. By analysing feathers from different penguin species, the researchers discovered Antarctic species the gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) was more superhydrophobic compared with a species found in warmer climes – the Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) – whose breeding sites include Argentinian desert. Gentoo penguins’ feathers contained tiny pores which trapped air, making the surface hydrophobic. And they were smothered with a special preening oil, produced by a gland near the base of the tail, with which the birds cover themselves.…

Answers 29–35

  1. 29

    Formations like {29} could provide geometry that delays ice formation.

    spheres Summary completion

  2. 30

    The delay in freezing is dictated by the {30} of the droplet.

    shape Summary completion

  3. 31

    Penguins in Antarctic are highly evolved to be able to cope with {31} conditions.

    harsh Summary completion

  4. 32

    Penguins are insulated by a {32} layer of fat.

    thick Summary completion

  5. 33

    On the land, penguins appear much more {33} than in the sea.

    awkward Summary completion

  6. 34

    The inspiration came to Kavehpour after watching a {34} about penguins.

    documentary Summary completion

  7. 35

    Kavehpour would like to see {35} surfaces which minimise frost formation.

    biomimicking Summary completion

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