Everyday Chemistry - TOEFL Reading Practice Test

Gaining proficiency in academic reading is essential for success in the TOEFL Reading section, which simulates the demands of English-language academic settings. This section assesses critical skills like identifying main ideas, gathering specific details, inferring meanings, and understanding text organization. Regular practice is crucial for high performance.

Our practice tests are designed to closely replicate the TOEFL's structure and language, helping you approach the exam with confidence. Take the TOEFL Practice Test on the "Everyday Chemistry" passage to get familiar with the test format and identify key areas to improve!

Reading Instructions:

• You have 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 9 questions related to it.
• Most questions are worth 1 point, but the last question is worth more. The directions indicate how many points you will receive for that specific question.
• The specific section/paragraphs have been provided again with the question for ease of understanding and quick solution.
• Some questions include a word or phrase that is highlighted in the question as well as in the paragraph for quick reference.

Chemistry, often called the central science, is important to our daily lives, controlling many aspects from the food we eat to the products we use for personal care. The principles of chemistry control how different substances interact, leading to the creation of new mixtures and materials. For example, the cooking reaction involves many chemical reactions, such as the Maillard reaction, which happens when proteins and sugars in food react under heat, resulting in browning and enhanced flavor. This reaction not only improves our cooking experiences but also helps us understand the food-related value and safety of the food we eat. Knowing about these chemical processes can empower people to make healthier food choices and appreciate the science behind cooking.

One of the most common uses of chemistry in everyday life is found in household cleaning products. These products often contain various chemical agents designed to remove dirt, stains, and bacteria. For example, bleach, a popular disinfectant, contains sodium hypochlorite, which acts as a strong cleaner. When bleach interacts with organic materials, it breaks down their structure, effectively removing stains and germs. However, using such chemicals raises concerns about safety and environmental impact. The release of harmful gases from cleaning products can contribute to indoor air pollution, which has been linked to breathing problems. This has led to a shift towards greener alternatives that use natural ingredients, like vinegar and baking soda, which can clean surfaces effectively without the harmful side effects of traditional chemicals.

In addition to cleaning products, chemistry is vital in making personal care items, including cosmetics and skincare products. The chemistry behind these products involves carefully selecting and combining different ingredients to achieve desired effects, like moisturizing, scrubbing, or sun protection. For instance, sunscreens contain chemical compounds that absorb or reflect ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting the skin from harmful effects. However, the effectiveness and safety of these chemicals have been subjects of ongoing research and debate, especially concerning their potential to disturb hormonal functions. As a result, consumers are increasingly looking for products free from certain controversial chemicals, leading to a rise in the popularity of natural and organic cosmetics. This change shows a broader trend toward sustainability and health awareness in consumer behavior.

The chemistry of everyday life goes beyond household products to include the materials we encounter regularly. Plastics, for example, are man-made plastics that have changed various industries because of their versatility and durability. Making plastics involves combining long molecules through a process called polymerization. While plastics have many advantages, such as being lightweight and moisture-resistant, their environmental impact is significant. The persistence of plastic waste in ecosystems has led scientists to explore biodegradable alternatives and recycling methods. Recent advancements in biological chemistry have resulted in bioplastics made from renewable resources, like cornstarch, which offer a more sustainable solution to plastic pollution. However, the effectiveness and scalability of these alternatives are still being studied.

Also, chemistry plays an important role in medicine, where it supports the development of drugs and medical treatments. Making drugs involves complex chemical processes that require a deep understanding of how molecules interact and how biological systems work. For example, creating aspirin, one of the most commonly used pain relievers, involves modifying salicylic acid, a compound from willow bark. This change not only improves the drug's effectiveness but also reduces stomach-related side effects. However, the drug-related industry faces challenges related to drug resistance and the need for new treatments. Ongoing research in drug chemistry aims to tackle these issues by developing new compounds that target specific biological pathways, improving treatment outcomes and minimizing side effects.

In conclusion, the influence of chemistry touches many parts of our daily lives, from the food we eat and the products we use to the materials that shape our environment. As society becomes more aware of the effects of chemical use, there is a growing demand for sustainable practices and safer alternatives. The ongoing conversation between consumers, scientists, and industry professionals is essential for fostering a better understanding of chemistry's role in everyday life. By embracing the principles of chemistry, individuals can make informed choices that not only enhance their quality of life but also contribute to the health of the planet. So, questions remain about the long-term effects of chemical exposure and the effectiveness of alternative products, suggesting that further research is needed to navigate the complexities of chemistry in our modern world.

Directions: Once you have read the passage, answer the following questions.

Paragraph 1

Chemistry, often called the central science, is important to our daily lives, controlling many aspects from the food we eat to the products we use for personal care. The principles of chemistry control how different substances interact, leading to the creation of new mixtures and materials. For example, the cooking reaction involves many chemical reactions, such as the Maillard reaction, which happens when proteins and sugars in food react under heat, resulting in browning and enhanced flavour. This reaction not only improves our cooking experiences but also helps us understand the food-related value and safety of the food we eat. Knowing about these chemical processes can empower people to make healthier food choices and appreciate the science behind cooking.

Factual Information Question

1. According to paragraph 1, what is the Maillard reaction?
   1. A process that enhances the nutritional value of food.
   2. A reaction that occurs when proteins and sugars in food react under heat.
   3. A method for preserving food.
   4. A chemical reaction that occurs only in baking.

Negative Factual Information Question

1. In paragraph 1, each of the following is mentioned as a benefit of understanding chemical processes in cooking EXCEPT:
   1. Improved cooking experiences.
   2. Enhanced flavour of food.
   3. Increased food safety.
   4. Reduced cooking time.

Paragraph 2

One of the most common uses of chemistry in everyday life is found in household cleaning products. These products often contain various chemical agents designed to remove dirt, stains, and bacteria. For example, bleach, a popular disinfectant, contains sodium hypochlorite, which acts as a strong cleaner. When bleach interacts with organic materials, it breaks down their structure, effectively removing stains and germs. However, using such chemicals raises concerns about safety and environmental impact. The release of harmful gases from cleaning products can contribute to indoor air pollution, which has been linked to breathing problems. This has led to a shift towards greener alternatives that use natural ingredients, like vinegar and baking soda, which can clean surfaces effectively without the harmful side effects of traditional chemicals.

Inference Question

1. What can be inferred from paragraph 2 about the trend in household cleaning products?
   1. Consumers prefer products that are more effective than traditional cleaners.
   2. There is a growing awareness of the environmental impact of cleaning products.
   3. All cleaning products are harmful to health.
   4. Bleach is the only effective cleaning agent available.

Rhetorical Purpose Question

1. Why does the author mention the shift towards greener alternatives in paragraph 2?
   1. To highlight the ineffectiveness of traditional cleaning products.
   2. To illustrate the growing consumer demand for safer and environmentally friendly options.
   3. To suggest that all cleaning products should be banned.
   4. To explain the chemical processes involved in making cleaning products.

Paragraph 3

In addition to cleaning products, chemistry is vital in making personal care items, including cosmetics and skincare products. The chemistry behind these products involves carefully selecting and combining different ingredients to achieve desired effects, like moisturising, scrubbing, or sun protection. For instance, sunscreens contain chemical compounds that absorb or reflect ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting the skin from harmful effects. However, the effectiveness and safety of these chemicals have been subjects of ongoing research and debate, especially concerning their potential to disturb hormonal functions. As a result, consumers are increasingly looking for products free from certain controversial chemicals, leading to a rise in the popularity of natural and organic cosmetics. This change shows a broader trend toward sustainability and health awareness in consumer behaviour.

Vocabulary Question

1. The word "disturb" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to:
   1. Enhance
   2. Disrupt
   3. Maintain
   4. Support

Sentence Simplification Question

1. Which of the following sentences best expresses the essential information in the following text from paragraph 3? 
   

"The chemistry behind these products involves carefully selecting and combining different ingredients to achieve desired effects, like moisturising, scrubbing, or sun protection."

1. 1. Personal care products are made from a variety of ingredients for different purposes.
   2. The effectiveness of personal care products depends on the ingredients used.
   3. Personal care products are designed to achieve specific effects through chemical processes.
   4. The ingredients in personal care products are often harmful to health.

Paragraph 4

The chemistry of everyday life goes beyond household products to include the materials we encounter regularly. Plastics, for example, are man-made plastics that have changed various industries because of their versatility and durability. Making plastics involves combining long molecules through a process called polymerisation. While plastics have many advantages, such as being lightweight and moisture-resistant, their environmental impact is significant. The persistence of plastic waste in ecosystems has led scientists to explore biodegradable alternatives and recycling methods. Recent advancements in biological chemistry have resulted in bioplastics made from renewable resources, like cornstarch, which offer a more sustainable solution to plastic pollution. However, the effectiveness and scalability of these alternatives are still being studied.

Purpose of the Passage Question 

1. What is the main purpose of paragraph 4?
   1. To discuss the advantages of plastics in various industries.
   2. To highlight the environmental issues associated with plastic waste.
   3. To explain the process of making plastics.
   4. To promote the use of bioplastics over traditional plastics.

Paragraph 5

Also, chemistry plays an important role in medicine, where it supports the development of drugs and medical treatments. Making drugs involves complex chemical processes that require a deep understanding of how molecules interact and how biological systems work. For example, creating aspirin, one of the most commonly used pain relievers, involves modifying salicylic acid, a compound from willow bark. This change not only improves the drug's effectiveness but also reduces stomach-related side effects. However, the drug-related industry faces challenges related to drug resistance and the need for new treatments. Ongoing research in drug chemistry aims to tackle these issues by developing new compounds that target specific biological pathways, improving treatment outcomes and minimising side effects.

Insert Missing Sentence Question

1. In paragraph 5, there is a missing sentence. The paragraph is repeated below and shows four letters (A, B, C, and D) that indicate where the following sentence could be added.

"Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing effective medications." 

Where would the sentence best fit?

Making drugs involves complex chemical processes that require a deep understanding of how molecules interact and how biological systems work. (A) For example, creating aspirin, one of the most commonly used pain relievers, involves modifying salicylic acid, a compound from willow bark. (B) This change not only improves the drug's effectiveness but also reduces stomach-related side effects. (C) However, the drug-related industry faces challenges related to drug resistance and the need for new treatments. (D)

1. 1. Option A
   2. Option B
   3. Option C
   4. Option D

Paragraph 6

In conclusion, the influence of chemistry touches many parts of our daily lives, from the food we eat and the products we use to the materials that shape our environment. As society becomes more aware of the effects of chemical use, there is a growing demand for sustainable practices and safer alternatives. The ongoing conversation between consumers, scientists, and industry professionals is essential for fostering a better understanding of chemistry's role in everyday life. By embracing the principles of chemistry, individuals can make informed choices that not only enhance their quality of life but also contribute to the health of the planet. So, questions remain about the long-term effects of chemical exposure and the effectiveness of alternative products, suggesting that further research is needed to navigate the complexities of chemistry in our modern world.

Prose Summary Question

1. Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage. Some sentences do not belong in the summary because they express ideas that are not presented in the passage or are minor ideas in the passage. This question is worth 2 points.

"Chemistry plays a crucial role in various aspects of everyday life, influencing our health, environment, and consumer choices."

1. 1. The principles of chemistry are essential for understanding food safety and cooking.
   2. The use of traditional cleaning products is being replaced by greener alternatives due to health concerns.
   3. Advances in drug chemistry are addressing challenges such as drug resistance and side effects.
   4. The popularity of personal care products is declining as consumers seek more effective options.

Before moving forward to check your answers, don't forget to go through the updated TOEFL Exam Pattern and Syllabus. 

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Everyday Chemistry

1. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage specifically describes the Maillard reaction as a cooking reaction that occurs when proteins and sugars in food react under heat, leading to browning and enhanced flavour. This definition aligns directly with option B, making it the correct choice.

2. Answer: D 

Explanation: The passage discusses the benefits of understanding chemical processes in cooking, including improved cooking experiences, enhanced flavour, and increased food safety. However, it does not mention anything about reducing cooking time, making option D the correct answer as it is the only one not mentioned.

3. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage highlights concerns about the safety and environmental impact of traditional cleaning products, leading to a shift towards greener alternatives. This indicates a growing awareness among consumers regarding the environmental effects of these products, which supports option B.

4. Answer: B

Explanation: The author mentions the shift towards greener alternatives to cleaning products to highlight the increasing consumer awareness and demand for safer, environmentally friendly options. This aligns with option B, making it the most appropriate choice.

5. Answer: B

Explanation: In the context of the passage, "disturb" refers to the potential negative effects that certain chemicals may have on hormonal functions. The closest synonym in meaning is "disrupt," which conveys a similar sense of interference or disturbance.

6. Answer: C

Explanation: This option captures the essence of the original sentence by summarising that personal care products are formulated with specific purposes in mind, which is a key point made in the passage about the chemistry involved in these products.

7. Answer: B

Explanation: The main focus of paragraph 4 is on the environmental impact of plastic waste and the exploration of biodegradable alternatives. While it mentions the advantages of plastics, the emphasis is clearly on the associated environmental issues, making option B the correct answer.

Option B is incorrect as it suggests a positive impact of globalization, which is not supported by the passage.

8. Answer: A

Explanation: The missing sentence fits best after the first sentence in paragraph 5, as it elaborates on the importance of understanding molecular interactions in the context of drug development. This placement enhances the flow of information regarding the complexity of drug chemistry.

9. Answer: Option A, B and C. 

Explanation: Option A is correct as it reflects the importance of chemistry in food safety and cooking. Option B is correct as it highlights the shift towards greener cleaning products due to health concerns. Option C is correct as it addresses advancements in drug chemistry related to drug resistance and side effects. Option D is incorrect because the passage does not indicate a decline in the popularity of personal care products; rather, it discusses a shift towards natural options.

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