nineteenth century, only a few industries could use scientific techniques or cared about
using them. The list expanded noticeably after 1870, but even then much of what passed
for the application of science was "engineering science" rather than basic science.
(15) Nevertheless, by the middle of the nineteenth century, the rapid expansion of scientific
knowledge and of public awareness-if not understanding-of it had created a belief that the
advance of science would in some unspecified manner automatically generate economic
benefits. The widespread and usually uncritical acceptance of this thesis led in turn to the
assumption that the application of science to industrial purposes was a linear process, starting
(20) with fundamental science, then proceeding to applied science or technology, and through
them to industrial use. This is probably the most common pattern, but it is not invariable. New
areas of science have been opened up and fundamental discoveries made as a result of
attempts to solve a specific technical or economic problem. Conversely, scientists who mainly
do basic research also serve as consultants on projects that apply research in practical ways.
(25) In sum, the science-technology-industry relationship may flow in several different ways, and
the particular channel it will follow depends on the individual situation. It may at times even
be multidirectional.
20. What is the author's main purpose in the passage?
(A) To show how technology influenced basic science
(B) To describe the scientific base of nineteenth-century American industries
(C) To correct misunderstandings about the connections between science, technology, and industry
(D) To argue that basic science has no practical application
21. The word "altogether" in line 2 is closest in meaning to
(A) completely
(B) realistically
(C) individually
(D) understandably
22. The word "intensive" in line 5 is closest in meaning to
(A) decreased
(B) concentrated
(C) creative
(D) advanced
23. The "list" mentioned in line 13 refers to
(A) types of scientific knowledge
(B) changes brought by technology
(C) industries that used scientific techniques
(D) applications of engineering science
24. The understanding of research and development in the late nineteenth century is based on which of the following?
(A) Engineering science is not very important.
(B) Fundamental science naturally leads to economic benefits.
(C) The relationship between research and development should be criticized.
(D) Industrial needs should determine what areas fundamental science focuses on.
25. The word "it" in line 16 refers to
(A) understanding
(B) public awareness
(C) scientific knowledge
(D) expansion
26. The word "assumption" in line 19 is closest in meaning to
(A) regulation
(B) belief
(C) contract
(D) confusion
27. Why does the author mention "consultants" in line 24 ?
(A) To show how new areas of science have given rise to new professions
(B) To distinguish between scientists who work in industry and those who do not
(C) To explain the ways in which scientists find financial support for their work |
