Task 1 for Computer Science Students

TOPIC Science and Technology

Ex.1. What is the difference between these words?

discover - invent
a discovery - an invention.
Look at the examples below, translate them and choose the correct words to
put into the sentences in the box.
Discover - to find or learn about something that already exists but was previously
unknown or hidden.
Examples: Early humans discovered fire when lightning struck a tree and
ignited it in the forest. Marie Curie discovered uranium, uncovering its properties
and significance in science. The Aztecs discovered the chocolate tree growing in
the rainforest many centuries ago.
Invent: - to create or design something new, especially a device, process, or
concept. Examples: Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876,
revolutionizing communication. The Aztecs, after discovering the chocolate tree,
invented a drink made from its fruit. Karel Capek invented the word “robot” in
1921, introducing a novel term to the world.
 Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876.
 Early man probably discovered fire when lightning struck a tree and made
a fire in the forest.
 Marie Curie discovered uranium.
 The Aztecs discovered the chocolate tree, growing in the rain forest many
hundred years ago. Then they invented a drink made from the fruit of this tree.
 Many people say that Christopher Columbus discovered America in 1492.
However, that’s not really true. There were people living there already, so they
knew all about America!
 The word “robot” was invented by Karel Capek in 1921. Now everybody
uses the word, but it was a new word then.
 The planet Pluto was discovered in 1930, but of course, it had been in the
sky for billions of years.

When someone makes a __discovery__, he or she finds something that

already existed in our world. He or she __discover__ something new, but
doesn’t create it.
When someone creates an __ invention __ , he or she makes something
new and useful. This idea or thing did not exist in the natural world
before. He or she __devises__ something that no one has ever thought
before.
Ex.2. A) Read the stories below and write the name of the person, their
problem and what helped them to find the solution.

Name The problem The chance which helped with the

great discovery
Archimedes Archimedes After much contemplation, Archimedes
was tasked couldn’t find a direct solution.
with However, while taking a bath, he
determining noticed the water level rising as he
whether the stepped into the tub. Suddenly, he
king’s crown realized that the volume of water
was made of displaced by his body was equal to the
pure gold. volume of the submerged part of his
body. This insight led him to the
concept of buoyancy. Excitedly, he ran
through the streets shouting “Eureka!”
(which means “I’ve found it!” in
Ancient Greek). He had discovered a
way to determine the crown’s purity by
comparing its density to that of gold.
Albert Einstein was While commuting home on a tram in
Einstein pondering the Geneva, Einstein had a breakthrough.
nature of space, He realized that the laws of physics
time, and should be the same for all observers,
gravity. regardless of their relative motion. This
insight eventually led to his
development of the Theory of
Relativity. The tram ride sparked the
idea that would revolutionize our
understanding of the universe.

Friedrich Kekule was One evening, while riding a bus,

August Kekule investigating Kekule was lost in thought about
the chemical structures. Suddenly, he
arrangement of visualized atoms dancing before his
atoms in eyes. He saw an atom join another to
organic form a chain. When he got off the bus,
compounds. he realized that this mental image
represented the cyclic structure of
benzene—a fundamental discovery in
organic chemistry. The bus ride had
sparked his creative insight.
B) Read the texts again and put a, an, the or – in each gap.
a) Archimedes in his bath
Do you remember the story of 1__the__Greek scientist Archimedes? He was
trying to solve 2__a__problem in 3___-__physics – how to show if the king’s
crown was made of 4___-__ gold or not.
He thought and thought, but he could not find the answer. So he stopped worrying
and had 5___a bath instead. Suddenly, 6__the_ answer came to his mind. He was
so excited that he jumped out of his bath, naked, and ran down the street shouting,
‘I’ve found it!’ Actually, what he said in 7__-__ Ancient Greek was ‘Eureka!’
We still use this word in 8__-__English when we suddenly find 9_an__ answer to
a problem.
b) Einstein on the tram
Albert Einstein had 1_his__ first idea about 2__the__ Theory of 3__-__
Relativity when he was traveling home from 4__-__ work on the tram in Geneva.
c) The scientist who saw the solution on a bus
The chemist Kekule is famous for having discovered a lot about how 1__the__
atoms and 2__the__ molecules are arranged.
3__his__ first discovery happened when he was riding on a bus, one evening in
about 1855, thinking about other things. Suddenly, he saw 4__the_ atoms dancing
before his eyes. Then one atom joined another one to make 5__a__ chain. When
he got off the bus he understood how 6__the_ atoms join together to make
molecules.

Ex.3. Look through the text and prove the importance of science and
scientists. Answer to the questions:

1. What impact does science have on our life?

2. What great discoveries and inventions have revolutionized the way we live and
work?

SCIENCE
Science is important to most people living in the modern world for a
number of reasons. In particular, science is important to world peace and
understanding, to the understanding of technology, and to our understanding of
the world.
 Science is important to world peace in many ways. On the one hand,
scientists have helped to develop many of the modern tools of war. On the other
hand, they have also helped to keep the peace through research, which has
improved life for people. Scientists have helped us understand the problem of
supplying the world with enough energy; using energy from the sun and from the
atom. Scientists have also analyzed the world's resources. Scientists study the
Universe and how to use its possibilities for the benefit of men.
Science is also important to everyone who is affected by modern
technology. Many of the things that make our lives easier and better are the results
of advances in technology.
Scientists are learning to predict earthquakes, to study many other natural
events such as storms. Scientists are also studying various aspects of human
biology and the origin and developments of the human race. The study of the
natural world may help improve life for many people all over the world.

Impact of Science on Our Life: Science has a profound impact on our

lives. It is integral to our understanding of the world and the universe. It helps us
understand natural phenomena, predict natural events like earthquakes, and study
human biology. Scientists’ research on energy sources, such as solar and atomic
energy, addresses the global energy supply problem. The study of the universe’s
potential benefits humanity. In essence, science improves life quality worldwide.

Great Discoveries and Inventions: Many great discoveries and inventions

have revolutionized our lives and work. For instance, the development of modern
technology, a product of scientific advancements, has made our lives easier and
better. The discovery of energy sources has transformed industries and homes.
The ability to predict natural disasters like earthquakes has improved safety
measures. The study of human biology has led to medical breakthroughs. These
are just a few examples of how science has revolutionized the way we live and
work.
Ex.4. Match the words with their definitions.

1. research a. idea that explains how or why something happens

2. property b. very significant and positive, providing some new ideas

3. theory c. detailed study of something

4. handful d. a ship that can travel both above and below the surface
of the sea

5. groundbreaking e. new, modern

6. updated f. parts of electronic devices

7. superconductors g. small number
8. semiconductors h. metal that allows electricity to pass through it without
resistance at low temperatures
9. components i. substances used in electronics whose ability to conduct
electricity increases with greater heat
10.submarine j. a quality or feature of something

1. Research - c. Detailed study of something

2. Property - j. A quality or feature of something
3. Theory - a. Idea that explains how or why something happens
4. Handful - g. Small number
5. Groundbreaking - b. Very significant and positive, providing some new
ideas
6. Updated - e. New, modern
7. Superconductors - h. Metal that allows electricity to pass through it without
resistance at low temperatures
8. Semiconductors - i. Substances used in electronics whose ability to conduct
electricity increases with greater heat
9. Components - f. Parts of electronic devices
10.Submarine - d. A ship that can travel both above and below the surface of
the sea
Ex.5. Make up sentences to each item of the diagram Gadgets and Machines
below

A sentences for each item of the diagram “Gadgets and Machines”:

 Microscope (Holland, 1590): The invention of the microscope in Holland

in 1590 opened up a new world of discovery, allowing us to see the tiniest
organisms and understand the complexities of life at a microscopic level.
 Coffee Vending Machine (France, 1891): The coffee vending machine,
first introduced in France in 1891, revolutionized the way we consume
coffee, providing quick access to a hot cup of joe with the simple drop of a
coin.
 Tape Recorder (Denmark, 1899): With the creation of the tape recorder in
Denmark in 1899, people were able to record and replay sounds, preserving
voices and music for posterity.
 Electric Washing Machine (United States, 1907): The electric washing
machine, developed in the United States in 1907, transformed household
chores by automating the laborious task of washing clothes.
 Scotch Tape (Great Britain, 1937): Scotch tape, coming from Great Britain
in 1937, became an indispensable tool for millions, providing a simple
solution for sticking things together.
 Ballpoint Pen (Hungary, 1938): The ballpoint pen, hailing from Hungary in
1938, made writing smoother and more convenient, eliminating the need
for constant ink refills.
 Compact Disc (Great Britain & US,1983): The compact disc, a joint
innovation by Great Britain and the US in 1983, changed the way we store
and listen to music, heralding a new era of digital sound quality.

These sentences highlight the significance and global impact of each

invention. Each gadget and machine has played a role in shaping the modern
world and improving our daily lives.
Ex.6. Complete the information below. Explain your choice.
1. The three most useful machines in my home: Refrigerator: It keeps food
fresh for longer, reducing the frequency of grocery shopping and food
waste.
2. The three most useful gadgets I own: Smartphone: It’s a versatile device
used for communication, entertainment, work, and more.
3. The most useless gadget I ever got: A knife, it might seem like a basic tool,
it’s actually one of the most versatile and essential items in many settings,
especially in the kitchen.
4. The three most important inventions in the last 50 years: Internet: It has
revolutionized communication, access to information, and many aspects of
our daily lives. Personal Computer: It has transformed work, education,
and entertainment. Mobile Phone: It has made communication accessible
and instant, and with the advent of smartphones, it has put a powerful
computer in everyone’s pocket.

Ex.7. Here are some very useful machines that can help us around the house.
Define them and the work they do: vacuum cleaner, freezer, lawn mower,
washing machine, fridge, food mixer, washing-up machine, sewing machine

Vacuum Cleaner: A device that uses suction to remove dirt and debris from
floors, upholstery, and other surfaces.
Freezer: An appliance that maintains a temperature below freezing point to store
food and prevent spoilage.
Lawn Mower: A machine used to cut grass to an even height in gardens and
lawns.
Washing Machine: An appliance designed to wash laundry, such as clothes and
sheets.
Fridge: Short for refrigerator, it’s an appliance that keeps food and drinks cold
and fresh.
Food Mixer: A kitchen device used to mix, beat, or whip ingredients together.
Washing-Up Machine: Commonly known as a dishwasher, it cleans dishes and
cutlery automatically.
Sewing Machine: A machine that stitches fabric and other materials together with
thread.

Ex.8. Read the stories about the invention of two of these useful machines
and complete the blanks with their names.
A) The man who invented this useful machine was called Hubert Cecil
Booth. But the idea wasn’t completely original.
In 1901, Mr. Booth saw a show at the theatre in which the ‘real’ inventor
showed how to clean a room with a magic machine. The only problem was that it
blew the dirt! It didn’t suck it up. It just moved it around. Everyone in the front
seats started sneezing! Booth spoke to the inventor, ‘Your machine is wonderful,
but it should suck not blow.’ ‘That’s not possible!’ said the angry inventor. ‘Yes,
it is,’ replied Booth and he went away and made a simple change to the design.
He made a machine which sucked the dust into a bag, and he made his fortune.
The most famous name connected with this machine is not Booth, however. In
Britain, it is Hoover, the name of one of the first companies to manufacture these
machines, and we even use the name as a verb. We often say ‘I’m just going to
hoover the floor,’ when we go the cupboard to get out the ___ vacuum
cleaner___.
B) The most famous name connected with this useful machine is Singer.
Isaac Singer did not invent the first machine of this type but he thought of an
improvement to the origin design. In 1851, the first Singer ___ sewing___
machines were sold. They weren’t electric, of course. You made the needle go up
and down by moving a pedal with your foot. The pedal moved wheels which
were connected with the needle. The Singer factory in Coventry also made
bicycles and then cars because the mechanism of the wheels was very similar in
all these machines.
Ex.9. Answer the following questions to the texts:
1. Which machines were described?
2. Use your general knowledge and describe the machines’ parts and the
principle of their work.
3. Do you think that the most people know the names of the people who first
invented them? Why?
4. Whose names are most connected with these machines?

1. Which machines were described?

o The two machines described are:
 The Vacuum Cleaner
 The Sewing Machine
2. Description of the machines and their principles of work:
o The Vacuum Cleaner:
 Parts: A vacuum cleaner typically consists of the following
parts:
 Motor: The heart of the machine, which generates
suction power.
 Dust Collection Bag or Canister: Where the dirt and
debris are collected.
 Filters: To trap fine particles and prevent them from
escaping back into the air.
 Hose and Nozzle: The hose connects to the main unit,
and the nozzle is used to direct suction.
 Brush Roll or Beater Bar: Helps dislodge dirt from
carpets.
 Principle of Work: The vacuum cleaner creates a partial
vacuum by using a motor to generate suction. As the machine
moves over surfaces, it sucks up dirt, dust, and debris into the
collection bag or canister. The filters ensure that the air
expelled is clean.
o The Sewing Machine:
 Parts: A sewing machine comprises several essential
components:
 Needle: Pierces the fabric and carries the thread.
 Bobbin: Holds the lower thread.
 Thread Tension Mechanism: Regulates the tension of
the upper and lower threads.
 Feed Dogs: Move the fabric forward under the needle.
 Presser Foot: Holds the fabric in place.
 Principle of Work: When you operate the sewing machine
(usually via a foot pedal), the needle moves up and down. The
upper thread passes through the fabric, while the bobbin
 thread comes up from below. The feed dogs advance the
fabric, allowing you to stitch various patterns and seams.
3. Awareness of the inventors’ names:
o Vacuum Cleaner: While Hubert Cecil Booth invented the practical
vacuum cleaner, the most famous name associated with it is Hoover.
However, many people might not know Booth’s name because
Hoover became synonymous with vacuum cleaners.
o Sewing Machine: Isaac Singer’s name is well-known in connection
with sewing machines. Although he didn’t invent the first one, his
improvements made a significant impact. People are more likely to
recognize the name Singer when discussing sewing machines.
4. Whose names are most connected with these machines?
o Vacuum Cleaner: Hoover
o Sewing Machine: Singer

Ex.10. Are there any differences between machines, gadgets, devices,

appliances? What are they? Which definition given below do you think is the
best? Add ideas of your own.

1. A machine is something, which is made by people. You don’t find it in the

natural world.
2. A machine is something made by people, which has moving parts and which
helps us to do useful things.
3. A machine has moving parts like wheels.
4. A machine can be operated by people, with their hands and feet, but it can also
use electricity or wind or water to make its parts move.

Each term has its nuances, and I’ll provide my perspective on the definitions:
1. Machine:
o Definition: A machine is something created by people that performs
specific tasks or functions. Unlike natural phenomena, machines are
intentionally designed and constructed.
o Characteristics:
 Purpose-Driven: Machines serve a purpose, whether it’s lifting
heavy objects, processing data, or generating energy.
 Man-Made: They do not occur naturally; humans invent and
build them.
 Examples: Cars, cranes, printing presses, and industrial robots.
2. Gadget:
 o Definition: A gadget refers to a small, often portable device or tool
designed for a specific function. Gadgets are typically novel, clever,
or specialized.
o Characteristics:
 Compact: Gadgets are usually compact and easy to carry.
 Innovative: They often incorporate new technologies or
creative solutions.
 Examples: Smartphones, fitness trackers, pocket-sized
projectors, and USB-powered mini fans.
3. Device:
o Definition: A device encompasses a broader category of objects,
including machines and gadgets. Devices serve various purposes and
can be simple or complex.
o Characteristics:
 Functional: Devices perform specific tasks or provide specific
services.
 Diverse: The term covers a wide range, from basic tools to
sophisticated electronics.
 Examples: Laptops, microwave ovens, heart rate monitors,
and traffic lights.
4. Appliance:
o Definition: An appliance refers to a specific type of device designed
for domestic or household use. Appliances are typically stationary
and serve everyday needs.
o Characteristics:
 Household Use: Appliances are found in homes, kitchens, and
laundry rooms.
 Utility: They simplify tasks like cooking, cleaning, or
preserving food.
 Examples: Refrigerators, washing machines, blenders, and
coffee makers.

My Thoughts:

 Among the given definitions, I find Definition 2 to be the most

comprehensive. It emphasizes both the human-made aspect and the
functionality of machines. However, I’d like to add that machines can vary
significantly in complexity, from basic lever systems to intricate computer-
controlled devices.
 Additionally, I propose an idea: Machines can be analog or digital. Analog
machines rely on physical components (gears, levers), while digital
machines operate using binary code and electronic circuits.
Ex.11. Make the list of gadgets, appliances and devices known to you.
equipment
facilities
gadget ( key finder, smartwatch, portable charger (power bank), fitness tracker)
appliance ( an electric kettle, refrigerator, microwave oven)
device ( a computer, smartphone, tablet, printer)

Ex.12. Find the following information in the net:

1. When was NASA set up? Why?
2. What field of research does NASA concentrate on?

NASA and its primary areas of research:

1. NASA Establishment:
o NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) was
established on July 29, 1958. The signing of the National
Aeronautics and Space Act marked its creation. Prior to NASA,
the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) existed,
but NASA was formed to give the U.S. space development effort a
distinctly civilian orientation. Its focus shifted toward peaceful
applications in space science and exploration 1. NASA began
operations on October 1, 1958, absorbing NACA intact, including its
employees and research laboratories.
2. NASA’s Fields of Research:
o Aeronautics Research: NASA conducts research, testing, and
development to advance aeronautics. This includes areas such as
electric propulsion and supersonic flight.
o Space Exploration Technology: NASA develops and funds space
technologies that enable future exploration. These technologies
benefit both space missions and life on Earth.
o Science and Exploration: NASA’s scientific endeavors are
multifaceted:
 Earth Observing System: Focused on better understanding
Earth through satellite observations.
 Heliophysics Research: Advancing heliophysics (the study of
the Sun and its effects on space) through various missions.
 Solar System Exploration: Exploring bodies throughout the
Solar System using robotic spacecraft and planetary rovers.
  Astrophysics: Researching topics like the Big Bang using
telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope and other
observatories.

NASA’s legacy includes iconic achievements like Project Mercury, the Apollo
Moon landings, Skylab, and the Space Shuttle program. Currently, NASA
supports the International Space Station, the Orion spacecraft, and the Artemis
program for crewed lunar exploration

Ex.13. Read the text and find the answer to the questions below.
STUDY OF SPACE: The Hubble Space Telescope
(Extracts from the journal of DK Munro, Astronomer)

I can hardly wait – tomorrow Hubble comes online and we will move into a
new era of astronomy. Ever since Galileo identified the planets in the 17 th
century we have looked at the stars and been disappointed. We have spent years
looking for the best place to site our telescope, to minimize the distortion caused
by the earth’s atmosphere, to find the clearest skies. Though telescopes have
improved over the years, stars still appear to twinkle. We know that they don’t,
it’s just the way the light comes into atmosphere. Now with a telescope in space
we can see stars as they really are.
In a couple of hours, I will be able to see the first images from Hubble. All
those years of planning – NASA and the European Space Agency have been
working together for almost twenty years, beginning in the 1970s, and have
pooled their resources to build this telescope. The space shuttle Discovery was
deployed to put Hubble 600 kilometres above the earth. Any time now we can
expect the clearest images of the moon, the planets and the stars.
I’ve just had a look at the first of Hubble’s images and all I can say is ‘Oh,
dear!’ The pictures are no clearer than the ones taken through a telescope on
earth. There seems to be a problem. Have we been wrong all this time and stars
really twinkle? I don’t think so. There could be any number of reasons why
Hubble’s images are out of focus. The people at NASA are checking the
software, but it looks as if the problem is something to do with the mirror.
I’m hoping today will be a good day. The Shuttle arrives at Hubble and the
astronauts will spend as much time as they can fixing the mirror. They have to fix
the mirror so that it moves in and out to focus accurately. If they can do that, then
we can try to look at the stars again and hopefully this time we’ll see them in
crystal clarity.
At last, the astronauts have repaired the mirror and looking at images is just
like being out there.
I wish Edwin Hubble could see these pictures. He was the scientist who
first realized that the universe was expanding and would had been overjoyed to
see the stars as clearly as I can see them now. Although Edwin Hubble expanded
our outstanding of the universe, the telescope named after him will increase our
knowledge of the planets, stars and galaxies we can now see properly.

1. Which project was run jointly by NASA and the European Space
agency?
The Hubble Space Telescope was a joint project between European
Space Agency and NASA

2. What place was chosen to site the Shuttle telescope?

Choice of Location for the Hubble Space Telescope: The Hubble
Space Telescope (HST) orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 600
kilometers (about 373 miles). It was placed in low Earth orbit to
minimize the distortion caused by Earth’s atmosphere.

3. What new technologies were deployed by investigators to get images

from space?
The space shuttle Discovery was deployed to put Hubble 600
kilometres above the earth. Any time now we can expect the clearest
images of the moon, the planets and the stars.

4. What problem arose with the telescope? How was the problem solved?
Shortly after its launch, Hubble’s primary mirror exhibited a flaw
known as spherical aberration. This distortion affected the clarity of the
telescope’s images. The cause of the flaw was traced to the primary mirror
having the wrong curve—it was too flat near its outer edge. The error was
10 times larger than the specified tolerance needed for proper functionality.

4. Why was the telescope named after Edwin Hubble?

The Hubble Space Telescope was named in honor of Edwin Hubble,
an American astronomer who made groundbreaking discoveries about
the cosmos.

5. Could astronomers make new discoveries by using the Hubble

telescope?
 Yes, astronomers have made numerous discoveries using the Hubble
Space Telescope:
Deep Field Images: Hubble’s deep field images revealed thousands
of galaxies, helping us understand galactic evolution.
Exoplanet Studies: Hubble has contributed to the study of exoplanet
atmospheres, including detecting metal oxides and hydrides.
Stellar Birth and Death: Hubble observed star-forming regions,
supernovae, and dying stars.
Dark Matter and Dark Energy: Hubble provided evidence for the
existence of dark matter and studied the acceleration of cosmic
expansion.
Cosmic Microwave Background: Hubble measured the afterglow of
the Big Bang.
In summary, Hubble has revolutionized our view of the universe and
continues to make new discoveries

Ex.14. Read the text again and choose the best ending for the sentence.
1. Images of the stars are unclear because …
A of poor quality telescopes.
B stars twinkle.
C of the light coming into the atmosphere.
D the sky isn’t always clear.

Answer: C. of the light coming into the atmosphere.

2. Hubble was built …
A by the Americans.
B by the Europeans.
C over a 20 year period.
D in space.

Answer: D. in space.
3. A space shuttle …
A sent back clear images.
B launched the satellite.
C built the telescope.
D put Hubble into orbit.
 Answer: D. put Hubble into orbit.

4. There was a problem ….

A with Hubble’s mirror.
B with the Space Shuttle program.
C repairing the telescope.
D deploying the telescope.

Answer: A. with Hubble’s mirror.

5. Edwin Hubble was the first to ….
A notice that the universe was getting larger.
B say how old the universe is.
C discover new planets.
D see another universe.

Answer: A. notice that the universe was getting larger.

Ex.15. Match the words with the definitions.

1 identify a. use something for a specific purpose
2 site b. get bigger
3 pool c. combine or share
4 deploy d. recognize someone or something
5 expand e. put something in a particular place

1. Identify: To recognize someone or something.

2. Site: To put something in a particular place.
3. Pool: To combine or share resources.
4. Deploy: To use something for a specific purpose.
5. Expand: To get bigger.