The Urban Heat Island Effect: Causes and Consequences
The urban heat island (UHI) effect is a well-documented phenomenon where metropolitan areas experience significantly higher temperatures than their surrounding rural environments. This temperature difference is most pronounced after sunset when heat stored during the day is released. Several factors contribute to the creation of UHIs. Firstly, the materials used in urban construction, such as asphalt and dark roofing, absorb and retain more solar radiation compared to natural landscapes. Secondly, the geometric structure of cities, characterized by tall buildings creating "urban canyons," reduces airflow and traps heat.
Furthermore, the lack of vegetation in cities limits the natural cooling process of evapotranspiration. Water runoff is increased by impermeable surfaces like concrete, preventing soil moisture from providing an evaporative cooling effect. Another critical factor is the release of anthropogenic heat from sources like vehicles, air conditioning units, and industrial processes. The consequences of the UHI effect are substantial, including increased energy consumption for cooling, which can exacerbate air pollution. Moreover, elevated temperatures pose considerable health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing effective mitigation strategies.
Câu hỏi luyện tập
1. What is the main purpose of the passage?
2. What term is used for the heat generated by human activities like transport and industry?
3. According to the passage, what effect does the structure of cities with tall buildings have?
4. What are the narrow spaces created by tall buildings that trap heat called?
5. In the passage, the word "exacerbate" is closest in meaning to:
6. What kind of surfaces, common in cities, prevent water absorption and limit cooling from evaporation?
7. The passage states that higher temperatures are especially dangerous for which specific groups of people?