Bài Reading 5.3

1.​ (a)   This continent is governed by an international agreement known as the Antarctic Treaty System, established in 1961. This treaty ensures that the region is utilized for peaceful purposes and encourages global scientific collaboration. While no nation officially owns this land, several countries—Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom—assert territorial claims. The treaty forbids military activity, resource extraction, and nuclear tests, designating the area for research and conservation efforts. As a result, scientists from various countries gather to study this unique environment, sharing their discoveries for the benefit of humanity.

• Who is in charge?
• First step on the ice
• Where is the end of the earth?
• Hidden geography
• Race to the pole
• Less effort needed
• Why is it so cold?

2.​ (a)   Setting foot on Antarctica is a significant event for any explorer or scientist. The journey typically begins in South America, where travelers board a ship or a plane to cross the Drake Passage. Once they arrive, the first step on the ice is both exhilarating and daunting. Visitors are immediately struck by the vast expanse of white, the crisp, cold air, and the breathtaking scenery. The sound of crunching ice underfoot serves as a reminder of the remote and untouched nature of this continent, a place where human footprints are few and far between.

• First step on the ice
• Who is in charge?
• Where is the end of the earth?
• Hidden geography
• Race to the pole
• Less effort needed
• Why is it so cold?

3.​ (a)   Positioned around the South Pole, Antarctica represents the southernmost point on the planet. The continent's remoteness contributes to its mystique, drawing adventurers and researchers alike. The harsh conditions, including bitter cold and relentless winds, create a sense of otherworldliness. In many ways, it feels like the last frontier on Earth, where the landscape remains largely unspoiled and the natural world thrives in its purest form.

• Where is the end of the earth?
• Who is in charge?
• First step on the ice
• Hidden geography
• Race to the pole
• Less effort needed
• Why is it so cold?

4.​ (a)   Beneath the massive ice sheets lies a concealed landscape that reveals much about the planet’s geological history. This region hosts the largest ice mass globally, covering approximately 98 percent of its area. The ice conceals a variety of geological features, including mountains and valleys. Researchers analyze ice cores extracted from deep within the layers to uncover details about past climates and atmospheric conditions. These investigations provide vital information for understanding global climate change and its potential implications for our world.

• Hidden geography
• Who is in charge?
• First step on the ice
• Where is the end of the earth?
• Race to the pole
• Less effort needed
• Why is it so cold?

5.​ (a)   The pursuit of the southernmost point in the early 20th century captivated many. Adventurers such as Robert Falcon Scott and Roald Amundsen undertook perilous journeys to achieve this milestone. Amundsen's successful expedition in 1911 marked a significant achievement in exploration, while Scott's tragic story underscored the risks associated with such endeavors. These tales of courage and ambition continue to inspire modern explorers, highlighting the fascination that this harsh terrain holds.

• Race to the pole
• Who is in charge?
• First step on the ice
• Where is the end of the earth?
• Hidden geography
• Less effort needed
• Why is it so cold?

6.​ (a)   Recent advancements in technology have made reaching this icy expanse easier than in the past. Modern icebreakers and advanced aircraft enable safer and more efficient travel. This accessibility has led to a rise in interest for tourism, allowing more people to experience the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. However, the increase in visitors raises concerns about the potential environmental impact, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable practices to safeguard this delicate ecosystem.

• Less effort needed
• Who is in charge?
• First step on the ice
• Where is the end of the earth?
• Hidden geography
• Race to the pole
• Why is it so cold?

7.​ (a)   The extreme low temperatures in this region result mainly from its high elevation and geographic positioning. Being located over the South Pole means it receives minimal direct sunlight, especially during the prolonged winter months of darkness. Average temperatures can plummet below -60°C (-76°F), with summer still remaining quite frigid. The reflective nature of ice further contributes to the chilling climate. Understanding these climatic influences is crucial for scientists studying global weather systems and shifts in climate patterns.

• Why is it so cold?
• Who is in charge?
• First step on the ice
• Where is the end of the earth?
• Hidden geography
• Race to the pole
• Less effort needed