Many of us have come to expect the traditional and reliable sources of energy
will be available forever. But, what is the source of all this energy that we have
used so carelessly? In most of the world, energy is created by burning fossil fuel—
coal, natural gas, and oil. However, there is a problem. These resources are finite.
And, at our current rate of use, by the year 2080, the world's supply of oil will
almost be gone. Afterwards, the day will probably come when we will not have enough
gasoline for our cars or electricity for our appliances. The three most commonly
proposed solutions to this worldwide problem are increasing the efficiency of
appliances and vehicles, improving conservation efforts, and finding alternative
energy sources.
Manufacturers have been working on the first solution for three decades.
However, the overall consumption of appliances and vehicles continues to rise. The
second solution is to improve our conservation like installing high-efficiency light
bulbs in our homes, offices, and schools, and remember to turn off the lights in
locations that we do not intend to use. Unfortunately, such strategies are only
temporary solutions.
Currently, the leading alternatives to fossil fuels are fusion and solar
energy. The former is a nuclear reaction that results in a massive release of energy
and is practically pollution-free. The latter can be utilized to heat water and
buildings and to generate electricity and also purify fuels for automobiles.
【題組】46According to the passage, which is the best solution to energy problems?
(A)Improving conservation efforts
(B)Inventing fuel-free appliances and vehicles
(C) Increasing the efficiency of appliances and vehicles
(D) Searching for alternative energy sources