Reading: Multiple Choice, Single Answer · Part 2: Reading

Carbon dioxide constitutes only a small part of…

19 students marked "I sat this"Question #081039

Choose the one correct answer.

Carbon dioxide constitutes only a small part of the atmosphere. But it has an important function in maintaining the balance between radiation from the sun entering the atmosphere and radiation leaving the Earth. Some of the radiation is absorbed by the Earth and some is radiated back into the atmosphere. Since carbon dioxide in the atmosphere prevents some of the radiation from leaving the atmosphere, the heat remains in the atmosphere. Yet, if the proportion of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is increased as a result of air pollution, the temperature of the atmosphere may rise with catastrophic consequences.

Which of the following most accurately summarizes the opinion of the author in the text?

  1. AClimatic changes brought about by air pollution are likely to be serious.
  2. BIncrease in levels of carbon dioxide in atmosphere causes air pollution.
  3. CAir pollution may upset the balance of nature through excessive levels of carbon dioxide.
  4. DCarbon dioxide helps prevent the temperature of the Earth from rising or falling.
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Reading: Multiple Choice, Single Answer format (Pearson)

Pearson's name: Multiple Choice, Single Answer

PromptText up to 110 words
Time to answerNot set per question (Part 2 lasts 23–30 minutes)
Skills assessedReading

How it is scored

  • Scored as either correct or incorrect.

Source: Pearson, PTE Academic & UKVI test format, Part 2: Reading, checked 9 October 2026.