Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-04

An alloy is a material that is made by combining a metal with at least one other element. While the principal component is usually a metal, the other elements can be either metals or non-metals. The purpose of creating an alloy is to produce a new substance which has improved characteristics compared to its individual components. Essentially, an alloy is a special mixture designed for better performance.

Pure metals often have limitations. For example, pure iron rusts easily and pure aluminum is quite soft. By mixing them with other elements, we can create alloys with more desirable properties. Stainless steel, for instance, is an alloy of iron and chromium and is known for its powerful resistance to rust. Similarly, adding copper to aluminum creates duralumin, a much stronger and harder material which is used in aircraft construction.

The process of creating an alloy is technically demanding. First, the component metals (21) __________ melted at very high temperatures in a large furnace. This is a process (22) __________ requires extreme heat and careful control. Once the metals are in a liquid state, they are mixed together in very precise proportions. The specific amount of each component is critical because it determines the final properties of the alloy. Finally, the liquid mixture is allowed to cool and solidify, forming the new material.

There are thousands of different alloys used in our daily lives. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, was one of the first alloys ever created by humans and was used for tools and weapons. (23) __________, steel is arguably the most important alloy today, essential for building everything from skyscrapers to cars. Many different types of steel exist, each designed for a specific purpose, such as surgical steel for medical instruments or high-carbon steel for durable tools.

In conclusion, alloys are a fundamental part of modern materials science. By carefully blending different elements, we can engineer materials that are stronger, lighter, or more resistant to corrosion than their original forms. As technology advances, new alloys are constantly being developed, and they continue to (24) __________ a crucial role in industrial progress.

Once, planning a trip meant visiting a travel agent, sifting through brochures, and relying on their expertise for flights, hotels, and tours. This personalized service was the norm. However, in our increasingly digital world, the landscape of travel planning has profoundly shifted. Smartphones, once primarily communication devices, have evolved into powerful personal assistants, fundamentally reshaping how we explore. This technological revolution prompts a key question for many modern travelers: is your phone truly your new travel agent?

The move from traditional agencies is largely due to the unparalleled convenience offered by mobile travel applications. [I] These platforms offer extraordinary transparency, allowing travelers to tailor every aspect of their journey, from specific seat preferences to finding niche hotels. The ability to plan complex itineraries is now quite literally at our fingertips, often at more competitive prices than traditional methods.

This digital transformation is particularly evident and impactful in countries like Vietnam. For years, booking inter-provincial bus tickets often meant navigating crowded bus stations, frequently dealing with language barriers and uncertainty about schedules. Platforms such as Vexere have revolutionized this experience. [II] Users can now book bus tickets online for routes across the entire country, bringing unprecedented ease and certainty to domestic travel. This exemplifies how technology solves specific local challenges, making travel more accessible and less stressful for millions.

As you approach independence and begin to plan your own adventures, perhaps a weekend trip with friends or a family vacation, understanding these digital tools becomes an essential skill. You’ll likely find yourselves relying heavily on travel apps to coordinate logistics, discover new places, and manage budgets. Learning to effectively navigate these platforms can save you significant time, money, and stress, ensuring a smoother journey. [III] Mastering mobile travel technology empowers you to take control of your future travel experiences.

So, is your phone truly your new travel agent? For most practical purposes, the answer leans heavily towards 'true.' While traditional agents still serve highly complex or bespoke trips, for the everyday traveler and independent young adventurer, a smartphone with the right applications offers immense control, information, and flexibility. It's more than just a booking tool; it’s a comprehensive travel companion, guide, and concierge, making the world more accessible than ever before, provided you know how to use its power wisely. [IV]