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Indoor Pollution Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test

updated at

Updated on Jul 15, 2024, 10:25

In the IELTS Reading section, your ability to understand complex concepts is tested through three passages, each accompanied by questions in formats like multiple choice, matching headings, and True/False/Not Given. Lasting 60 minutes, this segment challenges you to grasp key information, identify main ideas, and infer meaning effectively.

 

 

To excel in the IELTS Reading section, employ effective strategies such as skimming for main ideas and scanning for specific details. Regular practice with sample questions and exposure to diverse question types will refine your skills for test day.

 

 

Prepare for an enlightening exploration of "Indoor Pollution: Reading Answers," which delves into the various sources and impacts of pollution within our homes and workplaces. Explore how everyday activities and materials contribute to indoor pollution, and learn about the measures you can take to mitigate its effects, enriching your understanding of environmental health and safety.

 

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1. Indoor Pollution Reading Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 - 13 based on the Reading Passage below. This approach can help manage time effectively during a reading comprehension activity or exam.

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2. Indoor Pollution Reading Answers Question & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about indoor pollution Reading Answers

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1.

Indoor Pollution Reading Passage

General Information

  • Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
  • Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
  • Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
  • Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
  • Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
  • Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
  • Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
  • Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers.

 

 

 

 

Indoor Pollution Reading Passage 

 

 

Paragraph A 

 

We have been painfully aware of the devastation caused by widespread environmental degradation since the early 1980s. Such pollution is typically the result of poor government planning in a number of developing countries or the short-sighted, self-centred policies of developed countries that allow a minority of the world's population to waste the majority of the world's natural resources.

 

Paragraph B

 

While disasters such as deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, as well as acts of environmental sabotage, continue to receive extensive media coverage, it is important to note that not all pollution is of this magnitude. A significant portion of global pollution originates much closer to home. The recent crude oil spill from an oil tanker that accidentally discharged its cargo directly into Sydney Harbour not only caused severe damage to the harbour foreshores, but also produced toxic fumes that lingered over the suburbs for days, leaving angry residents wondering how such a disaster could have occurred.

 

Paragraph C

 

Pollution control can be a full-time job. Avoid breathing in traffic fumes, avoid chemical plants and construction sites, and ride with a mask. There is plenty to make one want to stay at home. However, new scientific evidence suggests that this would also be a bad decision. Even in the most polluted cities, indoor pollution levels of toxic gases, particulate matter, and other chemical "nasties" are typically higher than outdoor levels. Given that the average American spends 18 hours indoors for every hour spent outdoors, many environmentalists appear to be fighting the wrong battle.

 

Paragraph D

 

The most recent study, published in Environmental Science and Technology by two environmental engineers from the University of Texas at Austin, Richard Corsi and Cynthia Howard-Reed, reveals that the process of keeping clean may exacerbate indoor pollution. Baths, showers, dishwashers, and washing machines can all contribute significantly to indoor pollution by removing trace amounts of chemicals from the water they consume and releasing them into the air.

 

Paragraph E

 

Almost all public water supplies contain extremely low levels of harmful compounds, the vast majority of which are byproducts of the otherwise beneficial chlorination process. Dr. Corsi inquired whether they remain in the water after use or if they enter the air that people breathe. The scientists carried out a series of experiments in which known concentrations of five of these chemicals were mixed with water and passed through a dishwasher, a washing machine, a shower head within a shower stall, or a bath tap, all within a specially constructed chamber. The chemical concentrations in the chamber's effluent water and air were then measured to determine the amount of each chemical transported from the water to the air.

 

Paragraph F

 

The degree to which the most volatile materials can be removed from water, a process known as chemical stripping, is determined by a number of factors, including the chemical's volatility, the temperature of the water, and the transferable surface area. Dishwashers were found to be particularly effective: when the door is opened at the end of the cycle, the high-temperature spray splashing against the crockery and cutlery creates a toxic cloud.

 

Paragraph G

 

In many cases, the level of exposure from inhaling hazardous substances in tap water is comparable to the level of exposure from drinking the water. This is significant because many people are so concerned about water-borne contaminants that they only drink bottled water, the global sales of which are expected to exceed $72 billion by next year. D. Corsi's findings indicate that they are exposed to such contaminants simply by breathing at home.

 

Paragraph H

 

The goal of such studies, however, is not to encourage the use of gas masks when unloading laundry. Instead, it is intended to add context to the pollution debate. According to Dr. Corsi, a disproportionate amount of effort is expended on campaigns against specific types of outdoor pollution, when there is just as much or more cause for concern indoors, right under the public's nose.

 

Paragraph I

 

Using gas stoves or candles, for example, produces indoor levels of carbon monoxide and particulate matter comparable to those seen outdoors in high-traffic areas. Carbon dioxide levels in overcrowded classrooms with ventilation systems designed for fewer students frequently exceed what would be acceptable on board a submarine. The "new car scent" is the result of excessive amounts of hazardous compounds, not of cleanliness. Indoor air pollution is exacerbated by laser printers, computers, carpets, and paints.

 

Paragraph J

 

The effects of indoor pollution on health are unknown. However, before worrying about the problems caused by large-scale industries, it is important to consider domestic pollution and to invite international debate on this topic. Indoor pollution researchers will gather in Edinburgh next month for the Indoor Air conference to discuss the issue. The meeting is being held indoors, which may be a mistake.

 

2.

Indoor Pollution Reading Answers Question & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about indoor pollution

Questions and Answers 1-3
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? For questions 1-3, write

  • TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
  • FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
  • NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

 

1. We have not been too aware of the devastating effects of large-scale environmental pollution.

2. Severely toxic fumes were created by the spillage of crude oil from an oil tanker.

3. The cause of pollution is unknown to researchers.

 


Indoor Pollution Reading Answers Reading Answers with Explanations (1-3)

 

 

Question Type:  True/False/Not Given

 

In this task, you are presented with a statement, and your task is to determine if it agrees with the information in the passage (True), contradicts the information in the passage (False), or if there is insufficient information in the passage to decide (not given).


 

How to best answer the question:

 

  1. Read the statement carefully to ensure you understand exactly what it is saying. 
  2. Pay attention to details such as dates, numbers, and specific information.
  3. Scan the passage to find the section where the relevant information is likely to be located. 
  4. Focus on finding evidence that either supports or contradicts the statement.
  5. True: If the statement agrees with the information in the passage.
  6. False: If the statement contradicts the information in the passage.
  7. Not Given: If there is no information in the passage that confirms or contradicts the statement.


 

1. False.

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph A 

 

We have been painfully aware of the devastation caused by widespread environmental degradation since the early 1980s.

 

Explanation

 

This line directly states that we have been aware of the devastating effects of large-scale environmental pollution, contradicting the statement.


 

2. True.


 Reference:

 

Paragraph B 

 

The recent crude oil spill from an oil tanker that accidentally discharged its cargo directly into Sydney Harbour...produced toxic fumes that lingered over the suburbs for days. 
 

Explanation

 

This line confirms that the spillage of crude oil created severely toxic fumes, supporting the statement.


 

3. Not Given.

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph 

NA

 

Explanation

 

The passage does not provide specific information about whether the cause of pollution is unknown to researchers; hence, the statement is marked as Not Given.

 

Read more about Dictation Words for IELTS: Practice and Preparation!
 

Questions and Answers 4-8

  • Reading Passage 1 describes a number of cause and effect relationships.
  • Match each Cause (Questions 4-8) in List A with its Effect (A-J) in List B.
  • Write the appropriate letters (A-J) in boxes 4-8 on your answer sheet.

 

4. Industrialised countries consume a lot of energy.

5. An oil spill occurs in the sea.

6. The findings of the researchers are published.

7. The water is heated to a high temperature.

8. People are concerned about pollutants in tap water.

 

List B: IMPACTS

 

A. The emphasis of pollution shifts to the home.

B. Carbon monoxide levels rise.

C. Natural resources are unequally distributed around the world.

D. People expect an explanation.

E. Environmentalists look for an explanation elsewhere.

F. Chemicals are effectively removed from water.

G. A fresh odour is produced.

H. Bottled water sales are increasing.

I. Carbon dioxide levels are rising.

J. The chlorine level in drinking water has risen.


 

Indoor Pollution Reading Answers Reading Answers with Explanations (4-8)

 

 

Type of question: Matching Features

In the task of "Matching Features," you typically need to pair related items based on certain criteria. This could involve comparing characteristics, identifying connections, or linking items that complement each other. The specific approach will depend on the task's context. 


 

How to best answer the question

 

  • Start by identifying the key aspects of each item and then clearly demonstrate how they align or differ. 
  • Providing specific examples or evidence to support your comparisons can strengthen your answer. 
  • It's also essential to ensure that your response is organised and easy to follow, so consider using a structured format such as a table or a side-by-side comparison.


 

4. C

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph

 

the short-sighted, self-centred policies of developed countries that allow a minority of the world's population to waste the majority of the world's natural resources.

 

Explanation

This line indicates that industrialised countries consume a lot of energy, leading to unequal distribution of natural resources.

 

5. D

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph B

leaving angry residents wondering how such a disaster could have occurred.

 

Explanation

This line shows that after an oil spill, people demand an explanation, which matches the impact of an oil spill.


 

6. A

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph D 

The most recent study, published in Environmental Science and Technology by two environmental engineers...

 

Explanation

This line indicates that the publication of researchers' findings brings attention to pollution in homes.


 

7. F

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph F 

Dishwashers were found to be particularly effective: when the door is opened at the end of the cycle, the high-temperature spray splashing against the crockery and cutlery creates a toxic cloud.

 

Explanation

This line explains that high temperatures help effectively remove chemicals from water.


 

8. G

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph G

 

This is significant because many people are so concerned about water-borne contaminants that they only drink bottled water, the global sales of which are expected to exceed $72 billion by next year. 

 

Explanation

 

This line shows that concerns about tap water pollutants lead to increasing bottled water sales.

 


Read more about A Guide on Most Common English Words Used in Daily Life!
 

Questions and Answers 9-13

  • Choose the appropriate letters A-D and write them in boxes 9-13 on your answer sheet.

 

9. In the first paragraph, the author claims that

 

A. pollution has increased since the 1980s.
B. is at its worst in developed countries.
C. is the result of poor international relations.
D. is the result of human self-interest.

 

10. The oil spill in Sydney Harbour was caused by an 
 

A. ship refuelling in the harbour.
B. tanker is pumping oil into the sea.
C. collision of two oil tankers.
D. a deliberate act of sabotage.

 

11. The writer suggests in the third paragraph that
 

A. people should avoid working in cities.
B. Americans spend far too little time outside.
C. In industrial suburbs, hazardous gases are concentrated.
D. There are several ways to avoid city pollution.

 

12. According to the Corsi research team, 
 

A. toxic chemicals can pass from air to water.
B. Dishwashers and baths pollute the environment.
C. city water is deficient in chlorine.
D. poorly designed household appliances.

 

13. As a result of their research, Dr. Corsi's team discovered that 


A. dishwashers are extremely efficient machines.
B. Tap water is just as contaminated as bottled water.
C. Indoor pollution is as bad as outdoor pollution.
D. gas masks are an effective form of protection.


 

Indoor Pollution Reading Answers Reading Answers with Explanations (9-13)

 

 

Question Type: Multiple Choice 

 

Multiple Choice questions in the IELTS reading test present you with a question followed by a set of options from which you must choose the correct answer. Typically, there are three or four options to choose from. You must carefully read the question and each option before selecting the correct answer.


 

How to best answer this question:

 

  • You must comprehend the passage to select the most accurate option.
  • Efficient skimming and scanning help locate relevant information quickly.
  • Some options may be designed to mislead you, so it's crucial to base your choice on evidence from the passage.
  • Multiple-choice questions can be time-consuming if you dwell on each option too long. Manage your time wisely to ensure you can attempt all questions.


 

9. D. is the result of human self-interest.

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph  B 

 

The recent crude oil spill from an oil tanker that accidentally discharged its cargo directly into Sydney Harbour not only caused severe damage...

 

Explanation

 

The passage specifies that the oil spill was caused by the tanker accidentally discharging its cargo, leading to severe damage, indicating it was not due to refuelling, collision, or sabotage.

 

10. B. tanker pumping oil into the sea.


 

Reference:

 

Paragraph  B 

 

The recent crude oil spill from an oil tanker that accidentally discharged its cargo directly into Sydney Harbour not only caused severe damage...

 

Explanation

 

The passage specifies that the oil spill was caused by the tanker accidentally discharging its cargo, leading to severe damage, indicating it was not due to refuelling, collision, or sabotage.

 

11. D. There are several ways to avoid city pollution.

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph C 

 

Pollution control can be a full-time job. Avoid breathing in traffic fumes, avoid chemical plants and construction sites, and ride with a mask.

 

Explanation


This line lists various ways to avoid city pollution, such as avoiding traffic fumes and wearing masks, indicating several methods to mitigate exposure to pollutants.

 

12. B. Dishwashers and baths pollute the environment.

 

Reference:

 

Paragraph D 

 

Baths, showers, dishwashers, and washing machines can all contribute significantly to indoor pollution by removing trace amounts of chemicals from the water they consume and releasing them into the air.

 

Explanation

The passage explains that these household appliances contribute to indoor pollution by releasing chemicals into the air, underscoring their role in environmental contamination.

 

13. C. Indoor pollution is as bad as outdoor pollution.


 Reference:

 

Paragraph H 

 

a disproportionate amount of effort is expended on campaigns against specific types of outdoor pollution, when there is just as much or more cause for concern indoors, right under the public's nose.


 

Explanation

 

This line indicates that indoor pollution is as concerning as outdoor pollution, revealing that efforts to combat pollution should equally address indoor environments.


 

Read More:

 

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FAQs

Q. How can I improve my IELTS Reading score?

Ans. Improve your reading skills by practising regularly with sample passages and questions. Focus on skimming for main ideas and scanning for specific information. Time management is crucial, so practice completing each section within the allotted time.


 

Q. What types of texts are included in the IELTS Reading section?

Ans. The Academic version includes texts from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers, focusing on topics of general interest suitable for university-level study. The General Training version features extracts from books, magazines, newspapers, notices, advertisements, and company handbooks.
 

Q. What strategies can I use for difficult questions in the IELTS Reading section?

Ans. For difficult questions, first, try to locate the relevant section in the passage. Use a process of elimination to narrow down your choices. If you're still unsure, make an educated guess and move on to save time for other questions.