Vistas: Journey to the End of the Earth

Topics in this chapter

• Antarctic Journey and Landscape
• Earth History and Continental Drift
• Antarctic Ecosystem and Scientific Value
• Climate Change and Human Impact
• Environmental Responsibility and Cooperation
• Narrative Perspective and Title Significance

Cheat sheet

Practice questions

1. Question 1Q-37D447

   Why is Antarctica especially valuable for understanding the causes and consequences of climate change?

   1. A.Its isolated, relatively undisturbed environment makes changes in its ice, atmosphere and ecosystem important indicators of global environmental damage.
   2. B.Its warmer climate allows scientists to observe tropical crops throughout the year.
   3. C.Its large human population provides detailed records of industrial development.
   4. D.Its location prevents it from being affected by activities taking place elsewhere.
   See the answer and solution
2. Question 2Q-4EB195

   What is the purpose of the Students on Ice programme, and how can it influence the future of the planet?

   See the answer and solution
3. Question 3Q-7665E6

   What does the geological history of Gondwana chiefly reveal in “Journey to the End of the Earth”?

   1. A.The present continents have always existed separately in their current positions.
   2. B.The continents were once joined and later drifted apart over millions of years.
   3. C.Antarctica was formed recently by human activity.
   4. D.The continents have remained fixed since the origin of life.
   See the answer and solution
4. Question 4Q-CA5318

   Why does the narrator regard Antarctica as a place that expands one's understanding of Earth's past and present?

   See the answer and solution
5. Question 5Q-2F2978

   Why does the chapter present phytoplankton as vital to the Antarctic ecosystem?

   1. A.They absorb carbon dioxide and form the base of the marine food chain.
   2. B.They produce the ozone layer above Antarctica.
   3. C.They cause the movement of tectonic plates.
   4. D.They prevent all sunlight from reaching the ocean.
   See the answer and solution