ET is Probably Out There (Listening)

 1) What is the main topic of the lecture?

A) The history of the search for extraterrestrial life.
B) Reasons that the discovery of an alien species is imminent.
C) Methods for detecting life from space.
D) The procurement of extraterrestrial technology.


2) The main reason that the lecturer believes we will find alien life in the near future is that:

A) our technology is rapidly improving.
B) we have found a number of alien planets in recent years.
C) scientists have improved their search strategies.
D) we can send communication signals further than before.


3) At 4:54, the speaker says: "Well, a million star systems. . .is that interesting? I mean, how many of those star systems have planets? And the facts are, we didn't know the answer to that even as recently as 15 years ago. And in fact, we didn't even know it as recently as 6 months ago. But now we do. Recent results suggest that virtually every star has planets. . . and more than one, they're like. . .you know. . .kittens. You don't get one kitten; you get a litter of them."

Why does he say "they're like. . .you know. . .kittens. You don't get one kitten; you get a litter of them"?

A) To expressing surprise.
B) To make a joke.
C) To help the audience understand something complex.
D) To emphasize a recent point.


4) At 6:08, why does the lecturer say, "even taking the pessimistic estimate, that it's one in a thousand, it means that there are at least a billion cousins of the Earth just in our own galaxy"?

A) He is taking a conservative view to strengthen his argument.
B) He believes a pessimistic estimate is most reasonable.
C) He believes that one in a thousand too low of a number.
D) He wants to convince the audience that there are not many suitable planets.


5) According to the lecturer, what are some probable effects of learning that we are not alone in the Universe? (Choose two options)

A) We might gain substantial knowledge from an advanced society.
B) It will put our existence into a more realistic perspective.
C) It may cause significant conflict here on Earth.
D) We will be able to predict our own future from the knowledge we receive.


6) What are two advantages that the SETI program has in encouraging scientific awareness in the public? (Choose two options)

A) The results of the program will be achieved in the near future.
B) The science is much more interesting to the average person.
C) The scientists are better at advertising and explaining their intentions.
D) The goals of the program are relatively simple to understand.