Answer Keys:
Part 1: Question 1 - 13
- 1 D
- 2 NO
- 3 NOT GIVEN
- 4 YES
- 5 NOT GIVEN
- 6 NO
- 7 F
- 8 B
- 9 E
- 10 safety
- 11 not on duty
- 12 D
- 13 C
Part 2: Question 14 - 26
- 14 v
- 15 vii
- 16 viii
- 17 x
- 18 iii
- 19 ix
- 20 water
- 21 shaken
- 22 stronger
- 23 heal itself
- 24 control symptoms
- 25 cheaper
- 26 side effects
Part 3: Question 27 - 40
- 27 F
- 28 A
- 29 E
- 30 B
- 31 D
- 32 low quality
- 33 THC
- 34 A
- 35 B
- 36 A
- 37 C
- 38 A
- 39 C
- 40 B
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Review & Explanations:
Questions 1
Circle the correct answer A-D.
According to the passage, which of the following statements is supported by recent research?
- A
- B
- C
- D
Keywords in Questions | Similar words in Passage |
Q1 According to the passage, which of the following statements is supported by recent research? A. Napping is an indicator of laziness. B. Two thirds of Americans sleep too much. C. Napping in the workplace is a current trend. D. Short naps at work increase productivity. | Recent studies are showing that if you can take a 15 to 30-minute nap while at work in the afternoon, you’ll be more alert, more energetic, happier doing what you do, more productive and therefore more likely to get ahead. Two out of three Americans get less than eight hours of sleep a night during the work week, according to a recent study by the National Sleep Foundation in Washington. Napping on the job is not yet a trend but there is serious talk in academic circles about the merits of ‘power napping’. |
Note The keywords concerned in Q1 are supported and recent research. To answer this kind of question, we will use a technique called skimming to quickly get the most important information and then identify where the information needed in the passage is. Option A is incorrect. There is a tendency to associate napping with laziness but in recent study, people who take a nap at work are said to be more productive and energetic but not lazier. Option B is also incorrect. According to the passage, two thirds of Americans sleep less than eight hours of sleep a night, meaning that they don’t sleep too much. Option C is incorrect. According to the passage, napping on the job is not yet a trend. Option D is the correct answer. In recent research, short naps at work increase productivity and make people happier, more likely to get ahead. All things considered, the answer of Q1 is D. Short naps at work increase productivity. | |
Questions 2-6
Do the following statements reflect the claims of the writer in Passage 1?
Write:
| YES | if the statement agrees with the views of the writer |
| NO | if the statement contradicts the views of the writer |
| NOT GIVEN | if it is impossible to say what the writer thinks about this |
2 The number one cause of car accidents is fatigue.
3 People who nap in the afternoon are lazy.
4 A nap in the middle of the day can improve your mood.
5 People who nap regularly live longer.
6 The majority of Americans sleep at least eight hours a night.
- 2 Answer: NO
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q2
The number one cause of car accidents is fatigue.
Sleep researcher William Anthony, a professor of psychology at Boston University, says fatigue is a significant problem in modern society. he says sleepiness is a leading cause of auto accidents, second only to drunkenness.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q2 are number one cause, car accidents and fatigue.
According to the passage, the number one cause of car accidents is sleepiness, which contradicts with information in Q2.
For that reason, the answer of Q2 is NO.
- 3 Answer: NOT GIVEN
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q3
People who nap in the afternoon are lazy.
Recent studies are showing that if you can take a 15 to 30-minute nap while at work in the afternoon, you’ll be more alert, more energetic, happier doing what you do, more productive and therefore more likely to get ahead.
Note
The passage never states that people who nap in the afternoon are lazy. It also never states the opposite, which is people who nap in the afternoon are hard-working. So the answer is NOT GIVEN.
- 4 Answer: YES
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q4
A nap in the middle of the day can improve your mood.
Some people power through this natural slowdown with caffeine or sugar but if employers allowed naps, the benefits would be improvements in mood and performance, especially in mid-afternoon.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q4 are nap, middle of the day and improve your mood.
According to the passage, napping benefits would be improvements in mood. Hence, the question matches all key information in the passage.
For that reason, the answer of Q4 is YES.
- 5 Answer: NOT GIVEN
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q5
People who nap regularly live longer.
Recent studies are showing that if you can take a 15 to 30-minute nap while at work in the afternoon, you’ll be more alert, more energetic, happier doing what you do, more productive and therefore more likely to get ahead.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q5 are nap and regularly live longer.
According to the passage, napping can help people to be more alert, energetic, happier doing what they do. There is no information about the life expectancy of people who nap regularly.
For that reason, the answer of Q5 is NOT GIVEN.
- 6 Answer: NO
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q6
The majority of Americans sleep at least eight hours a night.
Two out of three Americans get less than eight hours of sleep a night during the work week,
Note
The keywords concerned in Q6 are majority, Americans and at least eight hours a night.
According to the passage, two out of three Americans sleep less than eight hours a night during the work week, which contradicts with information in Q6.
For that reason, the answer of Q6 is NO.
Questions 7-9
Choose one phrase from the list in the box (A-F) to complete each of the following sentences.
7 Humans are biologically programmed to ...
8 Employees of some progressive companies are encouraged to ...
9 Traditional employers are likely to ...
| A | drink coffee to stay awake during the afternoon |
| B | have a nap during breaks |
| C | fall asleep when they are bored |
| D | sneak naps without permission |
| E | resist the trend toward napping |
| F | fall asleep in the afternoon |
- 7 Answer: F
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q7
Humans are biologically programmed to ________
According to the Encyclopedia of Sleep and Dreaming: 'There is a biologically-based tendency to fall asleep in mid-afternoon just as there is a tendency to fall asleep at night.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q7 are humans, biologically and programmed to.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a phrase of verb.
According to the passage, humans are biologically programmed to fall asleep in mid-afternoon, matching with information in option F. asleep in the afternoon.
For that reason, the answer of Q7 is F. fall asleep in the afternoon.
- 8 Answer: B
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q8
Employees of some progressive companies are encouraged to _______
Workers commonly sneak naps even without permission but some companies have begun encouraging naps as part of their policies on boosting production. One US distributor is opening a 2,000-square-foot nap facility that provides beds for up to 20 of its 225 workers at a time. A company in Japan sets up tents in business offices provides eyeshades and ear plugs and encourages employees to snooze in the middle of the work day. According to Professor Anthony, 'You're not going to see napping at traditional types of operations ... but in 21st century-style operations, this isn’t going to be a perk. It’s going to have more to do with productivity. Smart employers are understanding that their employees need rest to do their best.’
Note
The keywords concerned in Q8 are employees, progressive companies and encouraged to.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a phrase of verb.
According to the passage, some companies encourages napping during break to boost production, matching with information in option. B. have a nap during breaks.
For that reason, the answer of Q8 is B. have a nap during breaks.
- 9 Answer: E
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q9
Traditional employers are likely to __________
According to Professor Anthony, 'You're not going to see napping at traditional types of operations ... but in 21st century-style operations, this isn’t going to be a perk.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q9 are traditional employers and likely.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a phrase of verb.
According to the passage, there is no napping in traditional types of operations, meaning that traditional employers are likely to resist the trend toward napping. This information is matched with option E. resist the trend toward napping.
For that reason, the answer of Q9 is E. resist the trend toward napping.
Questions 10-11
Complete the following sentences using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage.
In the transportation industry, napping is a matter of 10
On some airlines, pilots can sleep in the cockpit if 11
- 10 Answer: safety
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q10
In the transportation industry napping is a matter of __________
Some companies are encouraging sleep at work, primarily for safety. The Metropolitan Transit Authority, which runs the New York subway system and two suburban railroads, is considering power naps for its train operators and bus drivers. Another railway has started letting its train operators take nap breaks of up to 45 minutes but only when trains are stopped at designated spots off the main lines and dispatchers have been notified. Some overseas air carriers permit airline pilots, when not on duty, to nap in the cockpit.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q10 are transportation industry and napping.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a noun.
According to the passage, in the transportation industry, companies are encouraging sleep at work, primarily for safety.
For that reason, the answer of Q10 is safety.
- 11 Answer: not on duty
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q11
On some airlines, pilots can sleep in the cockpit if __________
Some overseas air carriers permit airline pilots, when not on duty, to nap in the cockpit.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q11 are airlines, pilots, sleep in the cockpit and if.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a condition of sleeping in the cockpit.
According to the passage, if not on duty, pilots can sleep in the cockpit.
For that reason, the answer of Q11 is not on duty.
Questions 12-13
Circle the correct answer A-D.
According to the writer, in America the workplace is becoming ...
- A
- B
- C
- D
Keywords in Questions | Similar words in Passage |
Q12 According to the writer, in America the workplace is becoming __________ A. less flexible. B. more exciting. C. less demanding. D. more stressful. | One thing is sure: longer commutes, more intense, stressful workday and higher production demands are taking a toll. |
Note The keywords concerned in Q12 are American, workplace and becoming. From the question, we can assume that the answer should be adjective describing workplace in America. According to the passage, workplace in America have longer commutes, more intense and stressful workday and higher production demand, matching with information in option D. more stressful. Other options like A. less flexible, B. more exciting and C. less demanding is incorrect. For that reason, the answer of Q12 is D. more stressful. | |
According to the writer, what is the main reason why employers support the idea of naps at work?
- A
- B
- C
- D
Keywords in Questions | Similar words in Passage |
Q13 According to the writer, what is the main reason why employers support the idea of naps at work? A. for health reasons B. to promote safety C. to increase productivity D. to encourage creativity | Recent studies are showing that if you can take a 15 to 30-minute nap while at work in the afternoon, you’ll be more alert, more energetic, happier doing what you do, more productive and therefore more likely to get ahead. 'People should be allowed to nap at their breaks. The rationale is a productivity one - workers are sleepy, and when they're sleepy on the job they’re not productive.' 'You're not going to see napping at traditional types of operations ... but in 21st century-style operations, this isn’t going to be a perk. It’s going to have more to do with productivity. Smart employers are understanding that their employees need rest to do their best.’ |
Note The keywords concerned in Q13 are main reason and naps at work. From the question, we can assume that the answer should be the main reason why employers support the idea of naps at work. Option A. for health reason is incorrect. There is no information about the relationship between employees’ health and napping. Option B. to promote safety is only true in the transportation industry, so it’s not the main reason why employers support the idea of naps at work. Option D. to encourage creativity is incorrect. There is no information about the creativity of people who nap at work. Option C. to increase productivity is the correct answer. This reason is stated in paragraph 1, 2 and 4. All things considered, the answer of Q13 is C. to increase productivity. | |
Questions 14-19
The reading passage has 7 sections A-G.
Choose the most suitable headings for sections B-G from the list of headings (i-x).
There are more headings than sections so you will not use all of them.
| List of Headings | |
| i | The future of homeopathy |
| ii | Concerns about homeopathy |
| iii | Comparison with traditional western medicine |
| iv | Dr. S. Hahnemann |
| v | Theoretical and experimental basis |
| vi | Revival of homeopathy |
| vii | Preparation of medicines |
| viii | Debate over effectiveness |
| ix | Advantages and limitations of homeopathy |
| x | Aspects of treatment |
Example Answer
Section A vi
14 Section B
15 Section C
16 Section D
17 Section E
18 Section F
19 Section G
- 14 Answer: v
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q14
Section B
Hahnemann’s discovery of the principle of homeopathy was accidental. After taking some quinine, he noticed that he developed malaria-like symptoms. Since malaria patients were treated with quinine, he speculated that possibly malaria is cured by quinine because it causes malaria-like symptoms in healthy people. He decided to explore his theory by testing other substances used as medicine at the time, such as arsenic and belladonna. His tests were conducted by either taking the substances internally himself or by administering them to healthy volunteers and then recording all of the symptoms the volunteers experienced. He continued his experiments on a wide range of natural substances, often toxic. These recorded results created ‘drug pictures’ which formed the basis for the new system of medicine. The next step was to give the tested substances to patients suffering from the same group of symptoms represented by the drug picture recorded. The results were incredible. People were being cured from diseases that had never been cured before. He condensed his theory into a single Latin phrase: similia similibus curentur (let likes be cured by likes). This means that a disease can be cured by a medicine which produces in a healthy person, symptoms similar to those experienced by the patient.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the section.
According to the Passage, Section B is about Hahnemann’s discovery of the principle of homeopathy and his experiments, matching with option v. Theoretical and experimental basis.
For that reason, the answer of Q14 is v. Theoretical and experimental basis.
- 15 Answer: vii
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q15
Section C
The process of making remedies is very precise. A homeopathic remedy is normally a single substance. The substances may be made from plants, minerals and even animals, for example snake venom and cuttlefish ink. To make remedies, the raw material is dissolved in a mixture that contains approximately 90% alcohol and 10% water. The mixture is left to stand for 2 to 4 weeks, shaken occasionally then strained. The resulting liquid or tincture is then diluted according to very specific measures to a factor of 1:100. For example, to produce a remedy called 1c potency or strength, one drop of the tincture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water mixture. To produce a 2c potency, one drop of the 1c mixture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water mixture. Between each mixture the remedy is shaken vigorously. Hahnemann believed that through this process, the energy of the substance was released. Once the remedy has been diluted beyond a 12c potency, it is unlikely that even a molecule of the original substance remains. Yet, ironically, the more dilute the remedy, the stronger it is. This makes no sense in light of present-day science but regardless of what science tells us is impossible, in practice, the higher the dilution the stronger and more lasting the effect.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the section.
According to the Passage, Section C is about steps in making homeopathic remedy, matching with option vii. Preparation of medicines.
For that reason, the answer of Q15 is vii. Preparation of medicines.
- 16 Answer: viii
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q16
Section D
It is this use of high dilutions that has given rise to controversy. Many conventional doctors claim that homeopathy functions only as a placebo because the dosage is so small. However, the clinical experience of homeopathy shows that this tiny dose can be effective: it works on unconscious people and infants, and it even works on animals. Controlled clinical studies performed by medical researchers are demonstrating that homeopathy can be an effective method of treatment for many diseases.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the section.
According to the Passage, Section D is about the controversy of homeopathy effectiveness, matching with option viii. Debate over effectiveness.
For that reason, the answer of Q16 is viii. Debate over effectiveness.
- 17 Answer: x
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q17
Section E
The most important part of homeopathic treatment lies in the lengthy interview which the homeopath conducts with the patient. The idea behind this one to two hour consultation is to build up a psychological, emotional and physical history of the patient, to discover the underlying patterns of disease. The homeopath then decides which medicine to prescribe based on the closest match between the patient’s symptoms and the known symptoms elicited by the medicine in a healthy body. A single dose is given for the shortest period of time necessary to stimulate the body’s healing power.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the section.
According to the Passage, Section E is about homeopathic treatment and how it conducts with patient, matching with option x. Aspects of treatment.
For that reason, the answer of Q17 is x. Aspects of treatment.
- 18 Answer: iii
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q18
Section F
How does the concept of homeopathy differ from that of conventional medicine? Very simply, homeopathy attempts to stimulate the body to recover itself. Instead of looking upon the symptoms as something wrong which must be set right, the homeopath sees them as signs of the way the body is attempting to help itself. Another basic difference between conventional medical therapy and homeopathy is in the role of medication. In much of conventional therapy the illness is controlled through regular use of medical substances. If the medication is withdrawn, the person returns to illness. For example, a person who takes a pill for high blood pressure every day is not undergoing a cure but is only controlling the symptoms. Homeopathy’s aim is the cure: ‘The complete restoration of perfect health,’ as Dr. Hahnemann said.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the section.
According to the Passage, Section F is about the difference between homeopathy and other conventional medicine, matching with option iii. Comparison with traditional western medicine.
For that reason, the answer of Q18 is iii. Comparison with traditional western medicine.
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
- 19 Answer: ix
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q19
Section G
Homeopathy has made significant progress in treating diseases which orthodox medicine finds difficult. Best at dealing with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, skin conditions, migraines and respiratory problems linked to allergies, it has also proved highly successful at treating asthma. But homeopathy is not an appropriate treatment for degenerative diseases such as emphysema. It cannot treat diseases which destroy tissue, although it can still be beneficial if used in combination with other treatments. Two of the main advantages of homeotherapy are the low cost of the medications and the rarity of adverse reactions. The medicines are inexpensive, safe, and easy to use, so people can learn to handle many of the common illnesses for which they currently seek medical help. The resulting savings in costs and the increase in personal independence represent a significant contribution to health care
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the section.
According to the Passage, Section G is about significant progress made by homeopathy in treating diseases and its limitations, matching with option ix. Advantages and limitations of homeopathy.
For that reason, the answer of Q19 is ix. Advantages and limitations of homeopathy.
Questions 20-22
Complete the description below.
Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.
The remedies come from plant, animal and mineral sources. A single product is mixed with alcohol and 20 then left to stand for 2-4 weeks. This mixture is strained to produce a tincture which can be diluted. 1 drop of this tincture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water. The mixture is then 21 vigorously. This produces a remedy with a potency of 1c. As the remedy becomes more diluted, it gets 22 |
- 20 Answer: water
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q20
Making a homeopathic remedy
The remedies come from plant, animal and mineral sources. A single product is mixed with __________ and left to stand for 2-4 weeks.
The process of making remedies is very precise. A homeopathic remedy is normally a single substance. The substances may be made from plants, minerals and even animals, for example snake venom and cuttlefish ink. To make remedies, the raw material is dissolved in a mixture that contains approximately 90% alcohol and 10% water. The mixture is left to stand for 2 to 4 weeks, shaken occasionally then strained.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q20 are single products and mixed.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be nouns, something homeopathic remedy is made of.
As the needed information is about making remedy, we should focus on section C. Preparation of medicines. According to the passage, a single product is mixed with alcohol and water before left to stand for 2-4 weeks.
For that reason, the answer of Q20 is water.
- 21 Answer: shaken
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q21
This mixture is strained to produce a tincture which can be diluted.
1 drop of this tincture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water.
The mixture is then __________
vigorously.
The resulting liquid or tincture is then diluted according to very specific measures to a factor of 1:100. For example, to produce a remedy called 1c potency or strength, one drop of the tincture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water mixture. To produce a 2c potency, one drop of the 1c mixture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water mixture. Between each mixture the remedy is shaken vigorously.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q21 are tincture, 99 drops and vigorously.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a past participle.
According to the passage, between each mixture, the remedy is shaken vigorously.
For that reason, the answer of 21 is shaken.
- 22 Answer: stronger
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q22
This produces a remedy with a potency of 1c.
As the remedy becomes more diluted,it gets __________
Once the remedy has been diluted beyond a 12c potency, it is unlikely that even a molecule of the original substance remains. Yet, ironically, the more dilute the remedy, the stronger it is.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q22 are diluted and gets.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be an adjective.
According to the passage, the more diluted the remedy, the stronger it is.
For that reason, the answer of Q22 is stronger.
Questions 23-26
Complete the summary.
Choose your answers from the box below.
Homeopathy differs from conventional medicine in a number of ways. Conventional medicine views symptoms as an indication of something wrong in the body whereas homeopathy sees them as signs that the body is attempting to 23 . The uses of medication differ also. Many types of conventional medication 24 but if the medicine is taken away, the illness returns. The intention of homeopathy is to bring about a complete cure. Homeopathic remedies are 25 than conventional medicine and have fewer 26 |
cheaper | cure | heal itself | illness | treatments | getting better |
control symptoms | more expensive | side effects | stronger | healthy | patients |
- 23 Answer: heal itself
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q23
Homeopathy differs from conventional medicine in a number of ways. Conventional medicine views symptoms as an indication of something wrong in the body whereas homeopathy sees them as signs that the body is attempting to _________
How does the concept of homeopathy differ from that of conventional medicine? Very simply, homeopathy attempts to stimulate the body to recover itself. Instead of looking upon the symptoms as something wrong which must be set right, the homeopath sees them as signs of the way the body is attempting to help itself.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q23 are signs, body and attempting.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a verb.
As the needed information is about difference between homeopathic remedy and conventional medicine, we should focus on section F. Comparison with traditional western medicine. According to the passage, homeopath sees them as signs of the way the body is attempting to help itself or in other words, heal itself.
For that reason, the answer of Q23 is heal itself.
- 24 Answer: control symptoms
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q24
The uses of medication differ also. Many types of conventional medication __________ but if the medicine is taken away, the illness returns.
In much of conventional therapy the illness is controlled through regular use of medical substances. If the medication is withdrawn, the person returns to illness
Note
The keywords concerned in Q24 are conventional medication, taken away and illness returns.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be a verb.
According to the passage, conventional medication is used to control illness or in other words, control symptoms. If the medicine is taken away, the illness returns.
For that reason, the answer of Q24 is control symptoms.
- 25 Answer: cheaper
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q25-26
The intention of homeopathy is to bring about a complete cure. Homeopathic remedies are __________ than conventional medicine and have fewer __________
Two of the main advantages of homeotherapy are the low cost of the medications and the rarity of adverse reactions.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q25-26 are homeopathic remedies and fewer.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be an adjective and a noun relating to advantages of homeopathy.
According to the passage, homeotherapy are the low cost of medication, meaning that it is cheaper than traditional medicine. Besides, it also has fewer adverse reactions or in other words, side effects, when compared with conventional medication.
For that reason, the answer of Q25 is cheaper and that of Q26 is side effects.
- 26 Answer: side effects
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q25-26
The intention of homeopathy is to bring about a complete cure. Homeopathic remedies are __________ than conventional medicine and have fewer __________
Two of the main advantages of homeotherapy are the low cost of the medications and the rarity of adverse reactions.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q25-26 are homeopathic remedies and fewer.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be an adjective and a noun relating to advantages of homeopathy.
According to the passage, homeotherapy are the low cost of medication, meaning that it is cheaper than traditional medicine. Besides, it also has fewer adverse reactions or in other words, side effects, when compared with conventional medication.
For that reason, the answer of Q25 is cheaper and that of Q26 is side effects.
Questions 27-31
Re-order the following letters (A-F) to show the sequence of events according to the passage.
| A | Timber and petro-chemical industries threatened |
| B | Articles praise hemp as a potential billion dollar crop |
| C | Widespread cultivation of hemp (Example) |
| D | Prohibition of marijuana |
| E | Newspaper articles link hemp to violent crime |
| F | Development of stripping machines |
The first one has been done for you as an example.
27
28
29
30
31
- 27 Answer: F
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q27
A. Timber and petrochemical industries threatened
B. Articles praise hemp as a potential billion-dollar crop
C. Widespread cultivation of hemp (Example)
D. Prohibition of marijuana
E. Newspaper articles link hemp to violent crime
F. Development of stripping machines
F. By the mid- 1930s, changes in technology were beginning to impact on the hemp industry. Mechanical stripping equipment and machines to conserve hemp’s high-cellulose pulp became available and affordable.
A. Timber and paper holding companies stood to lose billions of dollars if hemp were to be grown on a large scale. A resurgence of the hemp industry also threatened the emerging petrochemical companies which had patented the chemicals for pulp processing.
E. Newspaper articles began to appear, linking hemp with violent crime.
B. Supporting the theory that marijuana was banned to destroy the hemp industry, were two articles written just before the Marijuana Prohibition, claiming that hemp was on the verge of becoming a super crop. These articles, which appeared in well-respected magazines, praised the usefulness and potential of hemp. ‘Hemp can be used to produce more than 25,000 products’, and ‘hemp will prove, for both farmer and public, the most profitable and desirable crop that can be grown.’ This was the first time that ‘billion dollar’ was used to describe the value of a crop.
F. Less than one year after these articles were written, the Marijuana Prohibition took effect. To what extent a conspiracy was involved is still being debated, but the important thing is that for thousands of years, hemp was used extensively. Then over a short period, it became illegal in many parts of the world.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the passage.
Option C. Widespread cultivation of hemp, the first event in the sequence, has been done as an example.
According to the passage, by the mid-1930s, changes in mechanical striping equipment made hemp’s high cellulose pulp became available and affordable, matching with option F. For that reason, the answer of Q27 is F. Development of stripping machines.
- 28 Answer: A
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q28
A. Timber and petrochemical industries threatened
B. Articles praise hemp as a potential billion-dollar crop
C. Widespread cultivation of hemp (Example)
D. Prohibition of marijuana
E. Newspaper articles link hemp to violent crime
F. Development of stripping machines
F. By the mid- 1930s, changes in technology were beginning to impact on the hemp industry. Mechanical stripping equipment and machines to conserve hemp’s high-cellulose pulp became available and affordable.
A. Timber and paper holding companies stood to lose billions of dollars if hemp were to be grown on a large scale. A resurgence of the hemp industry also threatened the emerging petrochemical companies which had patented the chemicals for pulp processing.
E. Newspaper articles began to appear, linking hemp with violent crime.
B. Supporting the theory that marijuana was banned to destroy the hemp industry, were two articles written just before the Marijuana Prohibition, claiming that hemp was on the verge of becoming a super crop. These articles, which appeared in well-respected magazines, praised the usefulness and potential of hemp. ‘Hemp can be used to produce more than 25,000 products’, and ‘hemp will prove, for both farmer and public, the most profitable and desirable crop that can be grown.’ This was the first time that ‘billion dollar’ was used to describe the value of a crop.
F. Less than one year after these articles were written, the Marijuana Prohibition took effect. To what extent a conspiracy was involved is still being debated, but the important thing is that for thousands of years, hemp was used extensively. Then over a short period, it became illegal in many parts of the world.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the passage.
Option C. Widespread cultivation of hemp, the first event in the sequence, has been done as an example.
After the development of stripping technique, timber and paper holding companies threatened to lose billions of dollars if hemp were to be grown on a large scale, matching with option A. For that reason, the answer of Q28 is A. Timber and Petrochemical industries threatened.
- 29 Answer: E
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q29
A. Timber and petrochemical industries threatened
B. Articles praise hemp as a potential billion-dollar crop
C. Widespread cultivation of hemp (Example)
D. Prohibition of marijuana
E. Newspaper articles link hemp to violent crime
F. Development of stripping machines
F. By the mid- 1930s, changes in technology were beginning to impact on the hemp industry. Mechanical stripping equipment and machines to conserve hemp’s high-cellulose pulp became available and affordable.
A. Timber and paper holding companies stood to lose billions of dollars if hemp were to be grown on a large scale. A resurgence of the hemp industry also threatened the emerging petrochemical companies which had patented the chemicals for pulp processing.
E. Newspaper articles began to appear, linking hemp with violent crime.
B. Supporting the theory that marijuana was banned to destroy the hemp industry, were two articles written just before the Marijuana Prohibition, claiming that hemp was on the verge of becoming a super crop. These articles, which appeared in well-respected magazines, praised the usefulness and potential of hemp. ‘Hemp can be used to produce more than 25,000 products’, and ‘hemp will prove, for both farmer and public, the most profitable and desirable crop that can be grown.’ This was the first time that ‘billion dollar’ was used to describe the value of a crop.
F. Less than one year after these articles were written, the Marijuana Prohibition took effect. To what extent a conspiracy was involved is still being debated, but the important thing is that for thousands of years, hemp was used extensively. Then over a short period, it became illegal in many parts of the world.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the passage.
Option C. Widespread cultivation of hemp, the first event in the sequence, has been done as an example.
The next event was newspaper articles linking hemp with violent crime appeared, matching with option E. For that reason, the answer of Q29 is E. Newspaper articles link hemp to violent crime.
- 30 Answer: B
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q27-31
A. Timber and petrochemical industries threatened
B. Articles praise hemp as a potential billion-dollar crop
C. Widespread cultivation of hemp (Example)
D. Prohibition of marijuana
E. Newspaper articles link hemp to violent crime
F. Development of stripping machines
F. By the mid- 1930s, changes in technology were beginning to impact on the hemp industry. Mechanical stripping equipment and machines to conserve hemp’s high-cellulose pulp became available and affordable.
A. Timber and paper holding companies stood to lose billions of dollars if hemp were to be grown on a large scale. A resurgence of the hemp industry also threatened the emerging petrochemical companies which had patented the chemicals for pulp processing.
E. Newspaper articles began to appear, linking hemp with violent crime.
B. Supporting the theory that marijuana was banned to destroy the hemp industry, were two articles written just before the Marijuana Prohibition, claiming that hemp was on the verge of becoming a super crop. These articles, which appeared in well-respected magazines, praised the usefulness and potential of hemp. ‘Hemp can be used to produce more than 25,000 products’, and ‘hemp will prove, for both farmer and public, the most profitable and desirable crop that can be grown.’ This was the first time that ‘billion dollar’ was used to describe the value of a crop.
F. Less than one year after these articles were written, the Marijuana Prohibition took effect. To what extent a conspiracy was involved is still being debated, but the important thing is that for thousands of years, hemp was used extensively. Then over a short period, it became illegal in many parts of the world.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the passage.
Option C. Widespread cultivation of hemp, the first event in the sequence, has been done as an example.
After the events of articles linking hemp to violent crime, there were two articles written claiming hemp was a billion-dollar value crop, matching with option B. These articles were said to be released before the Marijuana Prohibition, matching with option D. For that reason, the answer of Q30 is B. Articles praise hemp as a potential billion-dollar crop and that of Q31 is D. Prohibition of marijuana.
- 31 Answer: D
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q27-31
A. Timber and petrochemical industries threatened
B. Articles praise hemp as a potential billion-dollar crop
C. Widespread cultivation of hemp (Example)
D. Prohibition of marijuana
E. Newspaper articles link hemp to violent crime
F. Development of stripping machines
F. By the mid- 1930s, changes in technology were beginning to impact on the hemp industry. Mechanical stripping equipment and machines to conserve hemp’s high-cellulose pulp became available and affordable.
A. Timber and paper holding companies stood to lose billions of dollars if hemp were to be grown on a large scale. A resurgence of the hemp industry also threatened the emerging petrochemical companies which had patented the chemicals for pulp processing.
E. Newspaper articles began to appear, linking hemp with violent crime.
B. Supporting the theory that marijuana was banned to destroy the hemp industry, were two articles written just before the Marijuana Prohibition, claiming that hemp was on the verge of becoming a super crop. These articles, which appeared in well-respected magazines, praised the usefulness and potential of hemp. ‘Hemp can be used to produce more than 25,000 products’, and ‘hemp will prove, for both farmer and public, the most profitable and desirable crop that can be grown.’ This was the first time that ‘billion dollar’ was used to describe the value of a crop.
F. Less than one year after these articles were written, the Marijuana Prohibition took effect. To what extent a conspiracy was involved is still being debated, but the important thing is that for thousands of years, hemp was used extensively. Then over a short period, it became illegal in many parts of the world.
Note
To answer this kind of question, we use the skimming method to have an overview of the passage.
Option C. Widespread cultivation of hemp, the first event in the sequence, has been done as an example.
After the events of articles linking hemp to violent crime, there were two articles written claiming hemp was a billion-dollar value crop, matching with option B. These articles were said to be released before the Marijuana Prohibition, matching with option D. For that reason, the answer of Q30 is B. Articles praise hemp as a potential billion-dollar crop and that of Q31 is D. Prohibition of marijuana.
Questions 32-33
Complete the following using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage.
Hemp | Marijuana | |
Fibre | strong and durable | 32 |
Drug Content | no active substances named 33 | up to 10% |
- 32 Answer: low quality
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q32
Fibre
Hemp: strong and durable
Marijuana: ________
Plants grown for fibre and seed are universally called hemp. Cannabis grown for its drug content is commonly called marijuana or drug cannabis. It is not feasible to ‘get high’ on hemp, and most marijuana produces very low-quality fibre.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q32 are hemp, fibre and Marijuana.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be information about the fibre in Marijuana.
According to the passage, Marijuana is cannabis grown for its drug content and has very low-quality fibre.
For that reason, the answer of Q32 is (very) low-quality.
- 33 Answer: THC
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q33
Drug Content
Hemp: ________
Marijuana: up to 10% THC
Drug-type cannabis varies widely in THC content from approximately 1-2% in unselected strains to 10% in the best modern varieties.’ (as cited from Watson 1994). Hemp contains virtually none of the active ingredients of drug-type cannabis (THC).
Note
The keywords concerned in Q33 are drug content, hemp and 10% THC.
From the question, we can assume that the answer should be information about drug content in hemp.
According to the passage, hemp is grown for fibre and seed and it contains virtually none of THC.
For that reason, the answer of Q33 is THC.
Questions 34-39
From the information given in the passage, classify the following (34-39) as characteristic of:
| A | Hemp |
| B | Wood |
| C | Cotton |
34 mildew-resistant
35 dioxin is a by-product of processing
36 can be harvested more than once a year
37 large amounts of fertiliser needed
38 fire-retardant properties
39 requires mild temperature
- 34 Answer: A
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q34
mildew-resistant
On an annual basis, one acre of hemp will produce as much libre as 2 to 3 acres of cotton. The fibre is stronger and softer than cotton, lasts twice as long and will not mildew.
Note
The keyword concerned in Q34 is mildew-resistant.
According to the passage, fibre of hemp is stronger, softer than cotton and it will not mildew or in other words, mildew-resistant, matching with option A. Hemp.
For that reason, the answer of Q34 is A. Hemp.
- 35 Answer: B
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q35
dioxin is a by-product of processing
Unlike paper from wood pulp, hemp paper contains no dioxin, or other toxic residue, and a single acre of hemp can produce the same amount of paper as four acres of trees.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q35 are dioxin and by-products.
According to the passage, dioxin is the by-products of processing paper of wood, matching with option B. Wood.
For that reason, the answer of Q35 is B. Wood.
- 36 Answer: A
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q36
can be harvested more than once a year
In warm climates hemp can be harvested two or even three times a year.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q36 are harvested and more than once a year.
According to the passage, hemp can be harvested two or even three times a year, matching with option A. Hemp.
For that reason, the answer of Q36 is A. Hemp.
- 37 Answer: C
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q37
large amounts of fertiliser needed
Cotton grows only in warm climates and requires more water and more fertiliser than hemp as well as large quantities of pesticide and herbicide.
Note
The keywords concerned in Q37 are large amounts and fertilizer.
According to the passage, cotton requires more fertilizer than hemp, matching with option C. Cotton.
For that reason, the answer of Q37 is C. Cotton.
- 38 Answer: A
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q38
fire-retardant properties
Hemp can also be used to produce fibreboard that is stronger and lighter than wood, and is fire retardant.
Note
The keyword concerned in Q38 is fire-retardant.
According to the passage, hemp can be used to produced fibreboard as it is fire-retardant, matching with option A. Hemp.
For that reason, the answer of Q38 is A. Hemp.
- 39 Answer: C
Keywords in Questions
Similar words in Passage
Q39
requires mild temperature
Cotton grows only in warm climates and requires more water and more fertiliser than hemp as well as large quantities of pesticide and herbicide.
Note
The keyword concerned in Q39 is mild temperature.
According to the passage, cotton grows only in warm climate, meaning that it requires mild temperature, which is matched with option C. Cotton.
For that reason, the answer of Q39 is C. Cotton.
Questions 40
Choose the correct answer A-D.
The main purpose of this article is ...
- A
- B
- C
- D
Keywords in Questions | Similar words in Passage |
Q40 The main purpose of this article is ... A to criticise government policy on hemp. B to show the economic benefits of hemp. C to compare hemp and marijuana. D to promote research into new uses of hemp. | Today, industrialised nations around the world are waking up to the enormous potential of hemp The products and fabrics that are emerging from the international hemp industry are finding strong demand in an eco-aware global community. Hemp is indeed an agricultural crop for the twenty-first century. |
Note The keywords concerned in Q40 are main purpose and article. Option A. to criticize government policy on hemp is incorrect, as the author did say about the benefits of hemp cultivation. Option C. to compare hemp and marijuana is also incorrect. There is a graph in which hemp is compared with marijuana, but it’s not the main purpose of the article as a whole. Option C. to promote research into new uses of hemp is incorrect as it is not mentioned in the article. Option B. to show the economic benefits of hemp is the correct answer. In the last paragraph, hemp is said to be the agricultural crop of this century because of its enormous potential. All things considered, the answer of Q40 is B. to show the economic benefits of hemp. | |
Reading Passage 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 1-13 which are based on this passage.
Sleeping on the job
North Americans are not a people of the siesta. There is a tendency to associate afternoon naps with laziness and non-productivity. Latin Americans and some in European cultures take a different view. In Mexico and Greece, for example, it is customary to close businesses between noon and about 4:00 pm - siesta time. Recent studies are showing that if you can take a 15 to 30-minute nap while at work in the afternoon, you’ll be more alert, more energetic, happier doing what you do, more productive and therefore more likely to get ahead. Napping on the job is not yet a trend but there is serious talk in academic circles about the merits of ‘power napping’.
By some estimate, the average American collects an annual 'sleep debt' of 500 hours - subtracting from an assumed norm of eight hours a night. Two out of three Americans get less than eight hours of sleep a night during the work week, according to a recent study by the National Sleep Foundation in Washington. Forty percent say they're so tired that it interferes with their daily activities. Sleep researcher William Anthony, a professor of psychology at Boston University, says fatigue is a significant problem in modern society. He says sleepiness is a leading cause of auto accidents, second only to drunkenness. All that drowsiness costs an estimated $18 billion annually in lost productivity. 'We have a simple message,' says Professor Anthony. 'People should be allowed to nap at their breaks. The rationale is a productivity one - workers are sleepy, and when they're sleepy on the job they’re not productive.'
Some companies are encouraging sleep at work, primarily for safety. The Metropolitan Transit Authority, which runs the New York subway system and two suburban railroads, is considering power naps for its train operators and bus drivers. Another railway has started letting its train operators take nap breaks of up to 45 minutes but only when trains are stopped at designated spots off the main lines and dispatchers have been notified. Some overseas air carriers permit airline pilots, when not on duty, to nap in the cockpit. Airlines in the United States have not accepted this practice yet.
According to the Encyclopedia of Sleep and Dreaming: 'There is a biologically-based tendency to fall asleep in mid-afternoon just as there is a tendency to fall asleep at night. Moreover, if sleep the night before is reduced or disturbed for any reason, a nap the subsequent afternoon is not only more likely to occur, but it can also relieve sleepiness and increase alertness.’ The nap zone, documented in numerous studies, is typically between noon and 3:00 pm. Some people power through this natural slowdown with caffeine or sugar but if employers allowed naps, the benefits would be improvements in mood and performance, especially in mid-afternoon. Workers would concentrate better and persevere in tasks longer. Workers commonly sneak naps even without permission but some companies have begun encouraging naps as part of their policies on boosting production. One US distributor is opening a 2,000-square-foot nap facility that provides beds for up to 20 of its 225 workers at a time. A company in Japan sets up tents in business offices, provides eyeshades and ear plugs, and encourages employees to snooze in the middle of the work day. According to Professor Anthony, 'You're not going to see napping at traditional types of operations ... but in 21st century-style operations, this isn’t going to be a perk. It’s going to have more to do with productivity. Smart employers are understanding that their employees need rest to do their best.'
Some suspect that corporate naptime, like other perks, is just a way to keep people at the office longer. On the other hand, growing flexibility in hours, for some workers, is allowing nap times to become more common. With eleven million Americans telecommuting and another forty million winking out of their bonus full- or part-time, office hours are basically as long as you can stay awake. One thing is sure: longer commutes, more intense, stressful workday and higher production demands are taking a toll. So, with Americans sleeping less and working longer hours, some employers are warming up to the idea that a little nap in the middle of the day can be good for business.
Reading Passage 2
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 14-26 which are based on this passage.
Homeopathy
A. Homeopathy is an alternative system of medicine, founded in the early 19th century by a German physician, Dr. Samuel Hahnemann. Since 1980, homeopathy has experienced a strong resurgence of interest in North and South America as well as in Europe. Surveys indicate that more than a third of French physicians have prescribed homeopathic remedies and almost 50 percent of British physicians have referred patients for homeopathic treatment.
B. Hahnemann’s discovery of the principle of homeopathy was accidental. After taking some quinine, he noticed that he developed malaria-like symptoms. Since malaria patients were treated with quinine, he speculated that possibly malaria is cured by quinine because it causes malaria-like symptoms in healthy people. He decided to explore his theory by testing other substances used as medicine at the time, such as arsenic and belladonna. His tests were conducted by either taking the substances internally himself or by administering them to healthy volunteers and then recording all of the symptoms the volunteers experienced. He continued his experiments on a wide range of natural substances, often toxic. These recorded results created ‘drug pictures’ which formed the basis for the new system of medicine. The next step was to give the tested substances to patients suffering from the same group of symptoms represented by the drug picture recorded. The results were incredible. People were being cured from diseases that had never been cured before. He condensed his theory into a single Latin phrase: similia similibus curentur (let likes be cured by likes). This means that a disease can be cured by a medicine which produces in a healthy person symptoms similar to those experienced by the patient.
C. The process of making remedies is very precise. A homeopathic remedy is normally a single substance. The substances may be made from plants, minerals and even animals, for example snake venom and cuttlefish ink. To make remedies, the raw material is dissolved in a mixture that contains approximately 90% alcohol and 10% water. The mixture is left to stand for 2 to 4 weeks, shaken occasionally then strained. The resulting liquid or tincture is then diluted according to very specific measures to a factor of 1:100. For example, to produce a remedy called 1c potency or strength, one drop of the tincture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water mixture. To produce a 2c potency, one drop of the 1c mixture is added to 99 drops of alcohol/water mixture. Between each mixture the remedy is shaken vigorously. Hahnemann believed that through this process, the energy of the substance was released. Once the remedy has been diluted beyond a 12c potency, it is unlikely that even a molecule of the original substance remains. Yet, ironically, the more dilute the remedy, the stronger it is. This makes no sense in light of present-day science but regardless of what science tells us is impossible, in practice, the higher the dilution the stronger and more lasting the effect.
D. It is this use of high dilutions that has given rise to controversy. Many conventional doctors claim that homeopathy functions only as a placebo because the dosage is so small. However, the clinical experience of homeopathy shows that this tiny dose can be effective: it works on unconscious people and infants, and it even works on animals. Controlled clinical studies performed by medical researchers are demonstrating that homeopathy can be an effective method of treatment for many diseases.
E. The most important part of homeopathic treatment lies in the lengthy interview which the homeopath conducts with the patient. The idea behind this one to two hour consultation is to build up a psychological, emotional and physical history of the patient, to discover the underlying patterns of disease. The homeopath then decides which medicine to prescribe based on the closest match between the patient’s symptoms and the known symptoms elicited by the medicine in a healthy body. A single dose is given for the shortest period of time necessary to stimulate the body’s healing power.
F. How does the concept of homeopathy differ from that of conventional medicine? Very simply, homeopathy attempts to stimulate the body to recover itself. Instead of looking upon the symptoms as something wrong which must be set right, the homeopath sees them as signs of the way the body is attempting to help itself. Another basic difference between conventional medical therapy and homeopathy is in the role of medication. In much of conventional therapy the illness is controlled through regular use of medical substances. If the medication is withdrawn, the person returns to illness. For example, a person who takes a pill for high blood pressure every day is not undergoing a cure but is only controlling the symptoms. Homeopathy’s aim is the cure: ‘The complete restoration of perfect health,’ as Dr. Hahnemann said.
G. Homeopathy has made significant progress in treating diseases which orthodox medicine finds difficult. Best at dealing with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, skin conditions, migraines and respiratory problems linked to allergies, it has also proved highly successful at treating asthma. But homeopathy is not an appropriate treatment for degenerative diseases such as emphysema. It cannot treat diseases which destroy tissue, although it can still be beneficial if used in combination with other treatments. Two of the main advantages of homeotherapy are the low cost of the medications and the rarity of adverse reactions. The medicines are inexpensive, safe, and easy to use, so people can learn to handle many of the common illnesses for which they currently seek medical help. The resulting savings in costs and the increase in personal independence represent a significant contribution to health care
Reading Passage 3
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 27-40 which are based on this passage.
The hemp revival
The hemp plant, one of the world’s oldest industrial resources, is back. The rediscovery of this renewable resource is making it the fibre of choice for future textiles, personal care products, building materials, paper and fuel.
Hemp has been grown for paper, textiles, food and medicine throughout human history. The earliest known woven fabric, made of hemp, dates back to the eighth millennium (8000-7000 BC). The majority of all sails, clothes, tents, rugs, towels, paper, rope, twine, art canvas, paints, varnishes and lighting oil were made from hemp. Hemp seeds were regularly used as a source of food and protein for centuries.
Hemp’s drastic decline in use and importance within a matter of fifty years is widely considered to have been brought about by the timber and petrochemical industries in America. By the mid- 1930s, changes in technology were beginning to impact on the hemp industry. Mechanical stripping equipment and machines to conserve hemp’s high-cellulose pulp became available and affordable. Timber and paper holding companies stood to lose billions of dollars if hemp were to be grown on a large scale. A resurgence of the hemp industry also threatened the emerging petro-chemical companies which had patented the chemicals for pulp processing. Newspaper articles began to appear, linking hemp with violent crime. The term used, however, was ‘marijuana’ to distance it from hemp used for industrial purposes. Because few people realised that marijuana and hemp came from the same plant species, virtually nobody suspected that the Marijuana Prohibition of 1938 would destroy the hemp industry.
Supporting the theory that marijuana was banned to destroy the hemp industry were two articles written just before the Marijuana Prohibition, claiming that hemp was on the verge of becoming a super crop. These articles, which appeared in well-respected magazines, praised the usefulness and potential of hemp. ‘Hemp can be used to produce more than 25,000 products’, and ‘hemp will prove, for both farmer and public, the most profitable and desirable crop that can be grown.’ This was the first time that ‘billion dollar’ was used to describe the value of a crop. Less than one year after these articles were written, the Marijuana Prohibition took effect. To what extent a conspiracy was involved is still being debated, but the important thing is that for thousands of years, hemp was used extensively. Then over a short period, it became illegal in many parts of the world.
Now, however, the focus is on the development of hemp as an industrial resource. Initially, a distinction needs to be made between the two types of hemp. ‘Cannabis has evolved into two basic species. Plants grown for fibre and seed are universally called hemp. Cannabis grown for its drug content is commonly called marijuana or drug cannabis. Drug-type cannabis varies widely in THC content from approximately 1-2% in unselected strains to 10% in the best modern varieties.’ (as cited from Watson 1994). Hemp contains virtually none of the active ingredients of drug-type cannabis (THC). It is not feasible to ‘get high’ on hemp, and most marijuana produces very low-quality fibre. Hemp should never be confused with marijuana, as their roles cannot be reversed.
It is evident that hemp is an extraordinary fibre. Both stems and seeds can be utilised. Most significantly, hemp can be grown without pesticides and herbicides. The plant also has the ability to suppress weeds and soil-borne diseases. Based on the hemp industries which have been established overseas, there is a large demand for hemp products and hemp is proving to be a highly profitable industry. On an annual basis, one acre of hemp will produce as much fibre as 2 to 3 acres of cotton. The fibre is stronger and softer than cotton, lasts twice as long and will not mildew. Cotton grows only in warm climates and requires more water and more fertiliser than hemp as well as large quantities of pesticide and herbicide.
Hemp can also be used to produce fibreboard that is stronger and lighter than wood, and is fire retardant. Unlike paper from wood pulp, hemp paper contains no dioxin, or other toxic residue, and a single acre of hemp can produce the same amount of paper as four acres of trees. The trees take 20 years to harvest and hemp takes a single season. In warm climates hemp can be harvested two or even three times a year. On an annual basis, one acre of hemp will produce as much paper as 2 to 4 acres of trees. From tissue paper to cardboard, all types of paper products can be produced from hemp. The quality of hemp paper is superior to tree-based paper. Hemp paper will last hundreds of years without degrading and it can be recycled many more times than tree-based paper.
Today, industrialised nations around the world are waking up to the enormous potential of hemp. While some countries, like China and India, have never had laws against hemp cultivation, others are legalising industrial hemp after many years of lumping it together with marijuana. The products and fabrics that are emerging from the international hemp industry are finding strong demand in an eco-aware global community. Hemp is indeed an agricultural crop for the twenty-first century.
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