IELTS Reading Test Sentence Completion Questions
Sentence completion questions are often found in the IELTS Reading test.
Read the instructions carefully as they will tell you how many words you are allowed to use to fill the gap.
Most commonly they will tell you to use ONE WORD ONLY or NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
It is important to note that if you use the wrong number of words, your answer will be marked incorrect even if the information you give is correct!
The sentences that you need to complete will usually be paraphrased from the sentences in the passage and will often include synonyms.
Read the extract below and answer the sentence completion questions that follow.
The impact of geomagnetic storms on Earth
Geomagnetic storms, also known as solar storms, occur when the Earth’s magnetosphere is disturbed by solar wind or other solar activity. One of the primary causes of geomagnetic storms is the emission of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun’s corona. These emissions, often referred to as coronal mass ejections (CMEs), can travel towards Earth and interact with its magnetosphere. These storms can have significant effects on various aspects of life on Earth.
When a geomagnetic storm reaches Earth, it can lead to a range of concerning consequences. One of the most noticeable effects is the disruption of satellite communications and navigation systems. The charged particles from the storm can interfere with the signals transmitted between satellites and ground stations, causing errors in navigation and communication.
Furthermore, geomagnetic storms can also impact power grids. The influx of charged particles can induce electric currents in power lines, leading to power outages and equipment damage. In extreme cases, large-scale blackouts can occur, disrupting daily life and causing economic losses.
The mesmerising beauty of geomagnetic storms as they affect the natural world has recently been witnessed by many across the world. For instance, they can cause auroras, also known as the Northern and Southern Lights, to become more prominent and visible at lower latitudes. These beautiful displays of light are caused by the interaction of charged particles from the Sun with the Earth’s atmosphere.
Geomagnetic storms are an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon with significant implications for Earth and its inhabitants. From disrupting technological infrastructure to influencing natural phenomena, these storms highlight the interconnectedness of the Earth and the Sun.
Questions 1- 5
Complete the sentences below.
Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the passage for each answer.
Write your answers in boxes 1-5 on your answer sheet.
1. The visibility of an aurora can become more pronounced at lower ……………. during geomagnetic storms.
2. Geomagnetic storms typically occur due to ………………… and magnetic field emission from the Sun’s corona.
3. Power grids can be affected leading to equipment ……………….. and power outages.
4. Worryingly, …………………. communications and navigation systems can be interrupted by geomagnetic storm activity.
5. The ……………….. of the Sun and our Earth are emphasised by the solar storm phenomena.
Answers
1. The visibility of an aurora can become more pronounced at lower latitudes during geomagnetic storms.
2. Geomagnetic storms typically occur due to plasma and magnetic field emission from the Sun’s corona.
3. Power grids can be affected leading to equipment damage and power outages.
4. Worryingly, satellite communications and navigation systems can be interrupted by geomagnetic storm activity.
5. The interconnectedness of the Sun and our Earth are emphasised by the solar storm phenomena.
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