The views of both scientists are similar because they both argue that: F. Humans will be able

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The views of both scientists are similar because they both argue that:
F. Humans will be able to exist indefinitely on Earth.
G. 7 billion years is long enough to create technology that will protect the earth from a changing sun.
H. The earth is subject to future atmospheric changes.
J. It might be possible to discover new planets that are able to sustain human life.


Scientist 1
Earth’s sun has another 7 billion years before it enters the Red Giant phase. Currently, Earth could not sustain human life during the Red Giant phase. However, it is important not to believe that human life on Earth will immediately cease to exist as we know it in 7 billion years. Technology has played a huge role in helping humans adapt to conditions on this planet. We humans have 7 billion years to advance technology and find solutions to adapt to the atmospheric changes the Red Giant phase would bring. For instance, creating a large sunshade to protect Earth would allow life to continue even when the sun enters the Red Giant phase. Another solution would be to develop technology that would stir the sun and bring new hydrogen to the sun’s core. This would greatly extend the current phase that our sun is in. There is enough time and incentive to discover ways to thwart the natural progress of nature. Therefore, I believe that human life on this planet will exist indefinitely.


Scientist 2
The sun will enter its Red Giant phase in about 7 billion years. However, new models suggest that Earth has less than a billion years before atmospheric carbon dioxide levels drop to levels that can no longer support photosynthesis. This would lead to a dramatic temperature increase. Once Earth’s average temperature rises to above 70°C, the oceans will evaporate and Earth’s water sources will be almost completely eliminated. One billion years is not long enough for humans to evolve in order to meet large atmospheric and environmental changes, or to develop the technology needed to make Earth habitable. In a billion years, atmospheric changes will eliminate all life on Earth as we know it. Humans need to accept the reality that advanced life flourishes for only a limited period of time. Science fiction—inspired plans to create space colonies or massive sunshades are unrealistic and will not likely be developed in the next billion years.

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10 ACT Practice Tests

ISBN: 9780071591461

2nd Edition

Authors: Steven Dulan

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