A look inside the secret lab where Google’s ‘Moonshot’ research takes place
In a rare public speech, Google Inc. CEO Larry Page once suggested the tech industry needs "safe places where we can try out new things" without rules or interference. Some people thought he was describing a futuristic fantasy.
But Page already has the next best thing in Google X, the secretive skunk works where company scientists get plenty of resources and free rein to work on things like self-driving cars, Internet-connected balloons and flying power generators.
At a time when other tech companies have trimmed research budgets or focused tightly on their core business, Google's X division is pursuing a range of seemingly outlandish ideas. And while much of it is hush-hush, the X projects that have been announced publicly may push the envelope even further than Google's ventures into ultrafast fiber networks, industrial robotics and high-tech home thermostats.
The problem solvers
"They're doing a lot of incredibly weird stuff," said Rob Enderle, analyst at the Enderle Group, "but they're rolling in money." Google made $13 billion profit on $60 billion in sales last year, mostly from online ads. "That gives them a lot of latitude in what they invest in."
"They understand that their mission is to think really audaciously, to incubate magic," Teller said in a speech last year, adding that X's goal is to "have an impact on the world and then worry later about making money on it."
Teller describes the mandate for X this way: Identify some really big problems that Google might be able to solve by applying technology in a radically new way.
"There's this open question of what Google is going to be, a decade or more from now," Teller said in an interview. "Google X isn't the only answer to that question, but it was built as a place to do some of the exploration to find some great new problems for Google to tackle."
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20140912ada0c8b730659aeb0dcf74ef57946380f3c36843e9d2048ca49fd575dceaa11c993.wma
Showing posts with label Innovation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Innovation. Show all posts
Friday, September 12, 2014
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Beetle Bottles
One little bug might be the start of a big change
In a bleak, lonely desert on Africa's southwestern coast, black insects push up their shells toward the sun. But these Namib Desert beetles aren't just trying to relax - this action gives them much needed water in one of Earth's driest areas.
On their raised backs, the beetles collect moisture from the morning fog, which beads and rolls directly into their mouths. While these remarkable creatures are built for survival, some young scientists think that the beetles inspire a solution to human water stress today.
NBD (Namib Beetle Design) Nanotechnologies is the name of this ambitious group, giving credit where it is due.
Though the little Namibian creatures were the stimulus for the development of several water-collection materials or devices, NBD Nano is putting their own stamp on the idea. They want to create a portable bottle that will collect water from the air as the beetles do. To achieve this, they have created a nano-designed surface imitating the beetle's wings, made up of both water-attracting and water-resisting parts.
Once they have a working prototype, it will likely first be sold to green consumers, military groups and greenhouses. However, ND Nano really hopes these sales will allow "beetle bottles" to be donated to Third-World countries - a very honorable goal.
Grammar Gym
to put one's stamp
stamp: a way to show that something belongs to you or has your unique quality
- NBD Nano is putting their own stamp on the idea.
- The band put their stamp on a popular children's song, and the song became a hit overnight.
- The restaurant put its stamp on a traditional Chinese dish by adding western ingredients to it.
Info Cloud
Third-World countries
二次世界大戰後, 冷戰時期的觀點:
First World 第一世界, 以美國為主的西方資本主義國家
Second World 第二世界, 被蘇聯支配的共產國家
Third World 第三世界, 其他國家都被歸類為此
在蘇聯瓦解之後, First World/ Second World 就成為歷史名詞,
而此後, Third World 泛指亞洲, 非洲, 等比較落後的國家 developing countries 開發中國家
Language Lab
bleak adj.荒涼的; 無遮蔽的, 遭受風吹雨打的
/ˈbli:k/
cold and without any pleasant or comfortable features
- You can see homeless people wandering around on the bleak inner-city streets.
你可以看到無家可歸的人在荒涼的巿中心流浪
bleak adj. 陰暗的, 無希望的
not warm, friendly, cheerful, etc. ; not hopeful or encouraging
without anything to make you feel happy or hopeful
- The outlook of the country's economy remains bleak.
這個國家的經濟前景仍然一片暗淡
nanotechnology n.奈米科技 [nano奈米/technology科技]
/ˌnænoʊtɛkˈnɑ:ləʤi/
the science of working with atoms and molecules to build devices (such as robots) that are extremely small;
a science which involves developing and making extremely small but very powerful machines
- The bioengineers used the most recent nanotechnology to create this device.
這些生物工程師運用了最新的奈米科技發明了這個儀器
stimulus n. 刺激; 刺激品; 興奮劑 (字尾有S但是卻是單數形)
/ˈstɪmjələs/
stimuli n. plural
/ˈstɪmjəˌlaɪ/
something that helps a process to develop more quickly or more strongly
- Low interest rates were one of the stimuli for the past few years' economic growth.
- The plant is very sensitive to external stimulus.
prototype n.原型; 標準; 模範 [proto 第一個/ type 類型]
1 the first form that a new design of a car, machine etc has, or a model of it used to test the design before it is produced
2 someone or something that is one of the first and most typical examples of a group or situation
- The prototype of the aircraft is still under construction.
- William is the prototype of old fashioned scholars.
William 是傳統學者的典範
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130720_aa789.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130720baa39eb141be4344ac9100d388e88702d27444795293bbc6fdba64a8caa6d90333b.wma
In a bleak, lonely desert on Africa's southwestern coast, black insects push up their shells toward the sun. But these Namib Desert beetles aren't just trying to relax - this action gives them much needed water in one of Earth's driest areas.
On their raised backs, the beetles collect moisture from the morning fog, which beads and rolls directly into their mouths. While these remarkable creatures are built for survival, some young scientists think that the beetles inspire a solution to human water stress today.
NBD (Namib Beetle Design) Nanotechnologies is the name of this ambitious group, giving credit where it is due.
Though the little Namibian creatures were the stimulus for the development of several water-collection materials or devices, NBD Nano is putting their own stamp on the idea. They want to create a portable bottle that will collect water from the air as the beetles do. To achieve this, they have created a nano-designed surface imitating the beetle's wings, made up of both water-attracting and water-resisting parts.
Once they have a working prototype, it will likely first be sold to green consumers, military groups and greenhouses. However, ND Nano really hopes these sales will allow "beetle bottles" to be donated to Third-World countries - a very honorable goal.
Grammar Gym
to put one's stamp
stamp: a way to show that something belongs to you or has your unique quality
- NBD Nano is putting their own stamp on the idea.
- The band put their stamp on a popular children's song, and the song became a hit overnight.
- The restaurant put its stamp on a traditional Chinese dish by adding western ingredients to it.
Info Cloud
Third-World countries
二次世界大戰後, 冷戰時期的觀點:
First World 第一世界, 以美國為主的西方資本主義國家
Second World 第二世界, 被蘇聯支配的共產國家
Third World 第三世界, 其他國家都被歸類為此
在蘇聯瓦解之後, First World/ Second World 就成為歷史名詞,
而此後, Third World 泛指亞洲, 非洲, 等比較落後的國家 developing countries 開發中國家
Language Lab
bleak adj.荒涼的; 無遮蔽的, 遭受風吹雨打的
/ˈbli:k/
cold and without any pleasant or comfortable features
- You can see homeless people wandering around on the bleak inner-city streets.
你可以看到無家可歸的人在荒涼的巿中心流浪
bleak adj. 陰暗的, 無希望的
not warm, friendly, cheerful, etc. ; not hopeful or encouraging
without anything to make you feel happy or hopeful
- The outlook of the country's economy remains bleak.
這個國家的經濟前景仍然一片暗淡
nanotechnology n.奈米科技 [nano奈米/technology科技]
/ˌnænoʊtɛkˈnɑ:ləʤi/
the science of working with atoms and molecules to build devices (such as robots) that are extremely small;
a science which involves developing and making extremely small but very powerful machines
- The bioengineers used the most recent nanotechnology to create this device.
這些生物工程師運用了最新的奈米科技發明了這個儀器
stimulus n. 刺激; 刺激品; 興奮劑 (字尾有S但是卻是單數形)
/ˈstɪmjələs/
stimuli n. plural
/ˈstɪmjəˌlaɪ/
something that helps a process to develop more quickly or more strongly
- Low interest rates were one of the stimuli for the past few years' economic growth.
- The plant is very sensitive to external stimulus.
prototype n.原型; 標準; 模範 [proto 第一個/ type 類型]
1 the first form that a new design of a car, machine etc has, or a model of it used to test the design before it is produced
2 someone or something that is one of the first and most typical examples of a group or situation
- The prototype of the aircraft is still under construction.
- William is the prototype of old fashioned scholars.
William 是傳統學者的典範
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130720_aa789.wmv
mms://203.69.69.81/studio/20130720baa39eb141be4344ac9100d388e88702d27444795293bbc6fdba64a8caa6d90333b.wma
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Food Inventions (2)
An emphasis on convenience
The egg carton
Back in 1911, an argument in British Columbia, Canada, led to a useful invention. Eggs shipped by a local farmer to a hotel owner often arrived broken, and each blamed the other for the damage. To solve the problem, Canadian newspaperman Joseph Coyle designed a paper carton with small, hollowed out spaces that cushioned the eggs and kept them separated. Coyle's invention was so successful that we still use a variation of it today.
The can
In 1810, London resident Peter Durand invented metal cans that would hold and preserve food for long periods of time. The only problem was that people had to use a hammer and chisel to open them. Amazingly, it took another 50 years before the can opener was invented by Ezra Warner.
The knife
Many believe the knife is mankind's oldest tool, with the earliest forms made from flint or a glass-like rock and then from metal around 2500 B.C. Through the years, the cutting device evolved into the handy tool we place so much reliance on today.
While we in the 21st century take these inventions for granted, our lives would be very different without these indispensable kitchen aids.
Info Cloud
take for granted 視為理所當然 [grant 給予, 受予]
to expect that someone or something will always be there when you need them and never think how important or useful they are
1 視為理所當然 take (something) for granted : to believe or assume that (something) is true or probably true without knowing that it is true
2 不懂得珍惜某人 take (someone or something) for granted : to fail to properly notice or appreciate (someone or something that is helpful or important to you)
Language Lab
carton n. 用來裝食物的飲料或紙盒
a small box made of cardboard or plastic that contains food or a drink
- There's no space in the refrigerator for this carton of orange juice.
冰箱裡沒有空間放這瓶柳程汁
- The boy drank a whole carton of milk the minute he came home.
這個男孩一回家就把整盒牛奶喝光了
variation n. 變化體 [var字根有不同的意思]
- This salad is a variation of a traditional Caesar salad.
這道沙拉是傳統凱撒沙拉的變化體
變化, 差異 [不可數名詞]
- The research showed a wide variation in the performance of rural and suburban kids.
研究報告顯示鄉村和城巿的孩子表現有很大的差異
chisel n.
/ˈtʃɪzl/
a metal tool with a flat, sharp end that is used to cut and shape a solid material (such as stone, wood, or metal)
flint n.
a hard type of rock that produces a small piece of burning material (called a spark) when it is hit by steel
mankind n.
all people thought of as one group
reliance n.倚靠 [rely v. 倚賴]
/rɪˈlajəns/
[singular, uncountable] when someone or something is dependent on someone or something else [= dependence]
the state of needing someone or something for help, support, etc. — usually + on or upon
- Tim is already 30, but his reliance on his parents is still very strong.
Tim 已經年紀三十, 但對父母的倚賴仍然很深
- Excessive reliance on exports affected the region's economy.
對出口的過度倚賴影響這個區域的經濟
indispensable adj. 不可或缺的, 絕對必要的
extremely important and necessary
- After years of hard work, Brenda became indispensable to the company.
經過多年的努力, Brenda對公司而言成為不可或缺的人
dispensable 可丟棄的
dispensable razors 用過即丟的刮鬍刀
back in
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130411_12e08.wmv
The egg carton
Back in 1911, an argument in British Columbia, Canada, led to a useful invention. Eggs shipped by a local farmer to a hotel owner often arrived broken, and each blamed the other for the damage. To solve the problem, Canadian newspaperman Joseph Coyle designed a paper carton with small, hollowed out spaces that cushioned the eggs and kept them separated. Coyle's invention was so successful that we still use a variation of it today.
The can
In 1810, London resident Peter Durand invented metal cans that would hold and preserve food for long periods of time. The only problem was that people had to use a hammer and chisel to open them. Amazingly, it took another 50 years before the can opener was invented by Ezra Warner.
The knife
Many believe the knife is mankind's oldest tool, with the earliest forms made from flint or a glass-like rock and then from metal around 2500 B.C. Through the years, the cutting device evolved into the handy tool we place so much reliance on today.
While we in the 21st century take these inventions for granted, our lives would be very different without these indispensable kitchen aids.
Info Cloud
take for granted 視為理所當然 [grant 給予, 受予]
to expect that someone or something will always be there when you need them and never think how important or useful they are
1 視為理所當然 take (something) for granted : to believe or assume that (something) is true or probably true without knowing that it is true
2 不懂得珍惜某人 take (someone or something) for granted : to fail to properly notice or appreciate (someone or something that is helpful or important to you)
Language Lab
carton n. 用來裝食物的飲料或紙盒
- There's no space in the refrigerator for this carton of orange juice.
冰箱裡沒有空間放這瓶柳程汁
- The boy drank a whole carton of milk the minute he came home.
這個男孩一回家就把整盒牛奶喝光了
variation n. 變化體 [var字根有不同的意思]
- This salad is a variation of a traditional Caesar salad.
這道沙拉是傳統凱撒沙拉的變化體
變化, 差異 [不可數名詞]
- The research showed a wide variation in the performance of rural and suburban kids.
研究報告顯示鄉村和城巿的孩子表現有很大的差異
chisel n.
/ˈtʃɪzl/
a metal tool with a flat, sharp end that is used to cut and shape a solid material (such as stone, wood, or metal)
flint n.
a hard type of rock that produces a small piece of burning material (called a spark) when it is hit by steel
mankind n.
all people thought of as one group
reliance n.倚靠 [rely v. 倚賴]
/rɪˈlajəns/
[singular, uncountable]
the state of needing someone or something for help, support, etc. — usually + on or upon
- Tim is already 30, but his reliance on his parents is still very strong.
Tim 已經年紀三十, 但對父母的倚賴仍然很深
- Excessive reliance on exports affected the region's economy.
對出口的過度倚賴影響這個區域的經濟
indispensable adj. 不可或缺的, 絕對必要的
extremely important and necessary
- After years of hard work, Brenda became indispensable to the company.
經過多年的努力, Brenda對公司而言成為不可或缺的人
dispensable 可丟棄的
dispensable razors 用過即丟的刮鬍刀
back in
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130411_12e08.wmv
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Food Inventions (1)
The stories behind the kitchen inventions we couldn’t do without
What was involved in preparing your dinner last night? You probably have never stopped to think about it, but many processes and devices were involved before the food and drink appeared on your table. As a matter of fact, food preparation innovations throughout history have paved the way for safer, easier-to-make meals.
A focus on safety Pasteurization
One of the most important food discoveries occurred in the 1860s when French chemist Louis Pasteure found that by heating liquids, harmful bacteria could be destroyed. Before then, deadly bacteria in food and drink led to disease and death. Today food is much safer thanks to the process of pasteurization, named for this scientist.
Refrigeration
In the old days people placed food in cold streams or under snow and ice to keep it from spoiling. The quest continued, though, for a better method to preserve and store food. Finally German engineer Carl von Linde developed a way to liquefy gas in large quantities, a process that is required for refrigeration. He patented his refrigeration design in 1877, and many consider von Linde the inventor of the modern-day refrigerator, something no kitchen should be without.
Info Cloud
thanks to= because of 由於, 因為
with the help of (someone or something) : because of (someone or something)
thanks to somebody/something [informal]
because of someone or something
Today food is much safer thanks to the process of pasteurization, named for this scientist.
多虧了pasteurization, 食物變的更安全
thanks to you & thanks to 是不一樣的,
thanks to you = because of you
意思是因為你的原故, 可用在好的方面或壞的方面,
- Thanks to you, I had a upset stomach after I drank the coffee you bought me.
多謝你買的咖啡, 我喝了以後肚子痛
- No thanks to you.
你沒有工勞
- I finally graduated, no thanks to you!
我終於畢業了, 你沒有幫我做任何事
Grammar Gym
"...something no kitchen should be without."
No [subject] should be without.
something is absolutely necessary for a certain subject
- This is a dictionary no language-learners should be without.
- This is a card no shopper should be without.
Language Lab
can do without
is often used to say that you do not like or approve of something.
pave the way 鋪平道地, 預先為某件事情做準備
make it possible to happen in the future
to make it easier for something to happen or for someone to do something
- The TV singing contest paved the way to the singer's professional debut.
參加電視的比較為這位歌手正式的出道來鋪路
- The meeting successfully paved the way for the peace treaty.
這個會議成功的為和平協議鋪路
pasteurization n.
/ˌpæstʃərəˈzeɪʃən/
a process in which a liquid (such as milk or cream) is heated to a temperature that kills harmful germs and then cooled quickly
deadly adj. 致死的, 致命的 [dead 死掉的]
causing or able to cause death
- The scientists have finally found a cure for this deadly disease.
科學家終於找到這個治療致命疾病的方法
adv. extremely or completely 極其的
deadly serious/dull/boring etcvery serious, dull etc
- The movie is deadly dull.
這部電影無聊的要命
quest n. 尋求, 探索
/ˈkwɛst/
a long search for something that is difficult to find
- The breakup didn't stop Renee's quest for true love.
這次的分手並沒有讓 Renee停止追求真愛
- The group's quest to find the hidden treasure was interrupted by severe weather.
這個團隊尋找神秘的寶物被這個惡劣的天氣打斷了
liquefy v. 液化 [liq字根有液體的意思]
/ˈlɪkwəˌfaɪ/
to become liquid, or make something become liquid
- Turn the heat up to liquefy the jelly.
把溫度提高來液化果醬
liquefaction n.
the act of making something a liquid or of becoming a liquid
- Natural gas liquefaction technology has been improved greatly in recent years.
天然瓦斯液化在近幾年來有很多的進步
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130410_c56a5.wmv
What was involved in preparing your dinner last night? You probably have never stopped to think about it, but many processes and devices were involved before the food and drink appeared on your table. As a matter of fact, food preparation innovations throughout history have paved the way for safer, easier-to-make meals.
A focus on safety Pasteurization
One of the most important food discoveries occurred in the 1860s when French chemist Louis Pasteure found that by heating liquids, harmful bacteria could be destroyed. Before then, deadly bacteria in food and drink led to disease and death. Today food is much safer thanks to the process of pasteurization, named for this scientist.
Refrigeration
In the old days people placed food in cold streams or under snow and ice to keep it from spoiling. The quest continued, though, for a better method to preserve and store food. Finally German engineer Carl von Linde developed a way to liquefy gas in large quantities, a process that is required for refrigeration. He patented his refrigeration design in 1877, and many consider von Linde the inventor of the modern-day refrigerator, something no kitchen should be without.
Info Cloud
thanks to= because of 由於, 因為
with the help of (someone or something) : because of (someone or something)
thanks to somebody/something [informal]
because of someone or something
Today food is much safer thanks to the process of pasteurization, named for this scientist.
多虧了pasteurization, 食物變的更安全
thanks to you & thanks to 是不一樣的,
thanks to you = because of you
意思是因為你的原故, 可用在好的方面或壞的方面,
- Thanks to you, I had a upset stomach after I drank the coffee you bought me.
多謝你買的咖啡, 我喝了以後肚子痛
- No thanks to you.
你沒有工勞
- I finally graduated, no thanks to you!
我終於畢業了, 你沒有幫我做任何事
Grammar Gym
"...something no kitchen should be without."
No [subject] should be without.
something is absolutely necessary for a certain subject
- This is a dictionary no language-learners should be without.
- This is a card no shopper should be without.
Language Lab
can do without
is often used to say that you do not like or approve of something.
pave the way 鋪平道地, 預先為某件事情做準備
make it possible to happen in the future
to make it easier for something to happen or for someone to do something
- The TV singing contest paved the way to the singer's professional debut.
參加電視的比較為這位歌手正式的出道來鋪路
- The meeting successfully paved the way for the peace treaty.
這個會議成功的為和平協議鋪路
pasteurization n.
/ˌpæstʃərəˈzeɪʃən/
a process in which a liquid (such as milk or cream) is heated to a temperature that kills harmful germs and then cooled quickly
deadly adj. 致死的, 致命的 [dead 死掉的]
causing or able to cause death
- The scientists have finally found a cure for this deadly disease.
科學家終於找到這個治療致命疾病的方法
adv. extremely or completely 極其的
deadly serious/dull/boring etcvery serious, dull etc
- The movie is deadly dull.
這部電影無聊的要命
quest n. 尋求, 探索
/ˈkwɛst/
a long search for something that is difficult to find
- The breakup didn't stop Renee's quest for true love.
這次的分手並沒有讓 Renee停止追求真愛
- The group's quest to find the hidden treasure was interrupted by severe weather.
這個團隊尋找神秘的寶物被這個惡劣的天氣打斷了
liquefy v. 液化 [liq字根有液體的意思]
/ˈlɪkwəˌfaɪ/
to become liquid, or make something become liquid
- Turn the heat up to liquefy the jelly.
把溫度提高來液化果醬
liquefaction n.
the act of making something a liquid or of becoming a liquid
- Natural gas liquefaction technology has been improved greatly in recent years.
天然瓦斯液化在近幾年來有很多的進步
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130410_c56a5.wmv
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Amazing Bridges (2)
Different roles
Bridges do many things in addition to spanning obstacles. The Khaju Bridge in Esfahan, Iran, illustrates some of the roles ridges play. Built around 1650, the bridge's graceful arches have provided people with shady meeting place for hundreds of years.
In the middle of the bridge sits an octagonal pavilion with an art gallery. It also acts as a dam. By blocking the flow of the Zayandeh River, the bridge provides water for gardens on its upstream side. Steps along its downstream side provide locals with a place for doing laundry.
Bridges in language and culture
Bridges also play a role in the English language. We warn people not to cross a bridge until they come to it and not to burn their bridges. The past becomes water under the bridge.
Culturally, bridges are a symbol of change. They feature in songs like "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and movies like the Bridge on the River Kwai. They also feature prominently in stories from around the world.
From transportation to culture, bridges play important roles in our daily lives.
Info Cloud
up / down
upstream 上游/ downstream 下游
uptown 上城 / downtown 下城
uptown 指城巿中心的北端, 也可指遠離巿中心的高級住宅區;
downtown 指城巿的南端, 後來指巿中心的商業區或鬧區
upfield 前場 / downfield 後場
upwind 上風 / downwind 下風, 順風
Language Lab
obstacle n.
something that makes it difficult to do something;
an object that you have to go around or over : something that blocks your path
- The car hit an obstacle and rolled over.
這部車撞上了障礙物而且翻車了
要說明達到某個目標的障礙... 用介細詞 to 後面加名詞
- The terrible weather is the biggest obstacle to rescuing the hikers.
惡劣的天候是救援這些登山者最大的障礙
illustrate v.
to give examples in order to make (something) easier to understand;
to be proof or evidence of (something);
to explain or decorate a story, book, etc., with pictures
- Let me illustrate my point with this chart.
讓我用這個圖表來說明我的重點
- The shift in his political position was neatly illustrated by his latest speech.
他政治立場的改變可以很清楚的表現在他最近的一場演講中
illustration n. 說明, 插圖
an example or story that is used to make something easier to understand;
a picture or drawing in a book, magazine, etc.;
graceful adj.
moving in a smooth and attractive way;
having a smooth and pleasing shape or style;
polite or kind
don't burn your bridges
it is important to remember and value the relationships that get you where you are and not damage those relationships
cross a bridge when ... come to it
You can say "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" if someone mentions a problem that might occur in the future, but you want them to think about what's happening now instead.
water under the bridge
(idiom) something in the past cannot be fixed, so it must be forgiven
feature in 使...成為主角
- The actress got famous by being featured in this popular sitcom.
這個女主角因為主演這部很受歡迎的喜劇而走紅
feature n.特徵, 特點
- The main feature of this town is this beautiful catherdral.
這座美麗的教堂是這座小鎮最具特色之處
prominently adv. very important 主要的, 顯著的
pro 向前
important and well-know;
easily noticed or seen;
sticking out in a way that is easily seen or noticed;
- All the doctor's certificates were prominently displayed on the walls of the clinic.
這個醫生所有的執照都很明顯的展示在牆壁上
- Child abuse figures prominently in this report.
虐待兒童在這篇報告站有及大的主題
octagonal n.
/ˈɑ:ktəˌgɑ:n/
mathematics : a flat shape that has eight sides and eight angles
pavilion n.
/pəˈvɪljən/
a building in a park or garden that usually has open sides and is used for parties, concerts, or other events;
a temporary building that is used at public events and exhibitions;
a large building that is used for sports or public events;
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130322_c636b.wmv
Bridges do many things in addition to spanning obstacles. The Khaju Bridge in Esfahan, Iran, illustrates some of the roles ridges play. Built around 1650, the bridge's graceful arches have provided people with shady meeting place for hundreds of years.
In the middle of the bridge sits an octagonal pavilion with an art gallery. It also acts as a dam. By blocking the flow of the Zayandeh River, the bridge provides water for gardens on its upstream side. Steps along its downstream side provide locals with a place for doing laundry.
Bridges in language and culture
Bridges also play a role in the English language. We warn people not to cross a bridge until they come to it and not to burn their bridges. The past becomes water under the bridge.
Culturally, bridges are a symbol of change. They feature in songs like "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and movies like the Bridge on the River Kwai. They also feature prominently in stories from around the world.
From transportation to culture, bridges play important roles in our daily lives.
Info Cloud
up / down
upstream 上游/ downstream 下游
uptown 上城 / downtown 下城
uptown 指城巿中心的北端, 也可指遠離巿中心的高級住宅區;
downtown 指城巿的南端, 後來指巿中心的商業區或鬧區
upfield 前場 / downfield 後場
upwind 上風 / downwind 下風, 順風
Language Lab
obstacle n.
something that makes it difficult to do something;
an object that you have to go around or over : something that blocks your path
- The car hit an obstacle and rolled over.
這部車撞上了障礙物而且翻車了
要說明達到某個目標的障礙... 用介細詞 to 後面加名詞
- The terrible weather is the biggest obstacle to rescuing the hikers.
惡劣的天候是救援這些登山者最大的障礙
illustrate v.
to give examples in order to make (something) easier to understand;
to be proof or evidence of (something);
to explain or decorate a story, book, etc., with pictures
- Let me illustrate my point with this chart.
讓我用這個圖表來說明我的重點
- The shift in his political position was neatly illustrated by his latest speech.
他政治立場的改變可以很清楚的表現在他最近的一場演講中
illustration n. 說明, 插圖
an example or story that is used to make something easier to understand;
a picture or drawing in a book, magazine, etc.;
graceful adj.
moving in a smooth and attractive way;
having a smooth and pleasing shape or style;
polite or kind
don't burn your bridges
it is important to remember and value the relationships that get you where you are and not damage those relationships
cross a bridge when ... come to it
You can say "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" if someone mentions a problem that might occur in the future, but you want them to think about what's happening now instead.
water under the bridge
(idiom) something in the past cannot be fixed, so it must be forgiven
feature in 使...成為主角
- The actress got famous by being featured in this popular sitcom.
這個女主角因為主演這部很受歡迎的喜劇而走紅
feature n.特徵, 特點
- The main feature of this town is this beautiful catherdral.
這座美麗的教堂是這座小鎮最具特色之處
prominently adv. very important 主要的, 顯著的
pro 向前
important and well-know;
easily noticed or seen;
sticking out in a way that is easily seen or noticed;
- All the doctor's certificates were prominently displayed on the walls of the clinic.
這個醫生所有的執照都很明顯的展示在牆壁上
- Child abuse figures prominently in this report.
虐待兒童在這篇報告站有及大的主題
octagonal n.
/ˈɑ:ktəˌgɑ:n/
mathematics : a flat shape that has eight sides and eight angles
pavilion n.
/pəˈvɪljən/
a building in a park or garden that usually has open sides and is used for parties, concerts, or other events;
a temporary building that is used at public events and exhibitions;
a large building that is used for sports or public events;
| The Khaju Bridge in Esfahan, Iran |
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130322_c636b.wmv
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Amazing Bridges (1)
Bringing cultures and people closer together
Bridges come in many shapes and sizes, from simple spans to architectural wonders. People admire their beauty. The Sydney Harbor Bridge, Tower Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge draw countless
tourists each year.
Bridges are an important part of our transportation system, too. Imagine trying to get to work or school without any bridges.
Amazing design
While all bridges rely on careful engineering, some attract attention because of their interesting examples of design. The Magdeburg Water Bridge in Germany is a wonderful example and looks a lot like an optical illusion.
As strange as it sounds, the bridge connects two canals and allows their water to pass over the Elbe River. The bridge works like a "concrete bathtub" and helps boats avoid a long and difficult journey down the river.
Another showcase of bridge design is the Gateshead Millennium Bridge in England. The bridge is made of two steel arches that tip up to allow boats to pass underneath. Each time this self-cleaning bridge tips up, trash rolls along the bridge and into traps at either end.
Grammar Gym
While all [situation A], some [situation B].
"While all bridges rely on careful engineering, some attract attention because of their interesting examples of design. "
- While all students have classes from Monday through Friday, some take special classes on Saturdays.
- While all tourists visit the base of the waterfall some take the extra time to hike to the top of the waterfall.
Info Cloud
illusion n.
something that seems to be different from the way it really is
本文說到德國的寶格德水穚, 這做穚看起來像一個 optical illusion 視覺上的錯覺
英文中的 mirage 海市蜃樓, 就是一個 optical illusion 視覺上的錯覺
除此之外, 聽覺上的錯覺 auditory illusion / 觸覺上的錯覺 tactile illusion
Language Lab
span n.
the part of a bridge, arch etc that goes across from one support to another
transportation n.[noncount] 運輸, 運輸工具
the act or process of moving people or things from one place to another
trans 越過/port 運送
- Jason takes public transportation to save money.
Jason 搭乘公共交通工具來省錢
- The transportation and lodging can be reimbursed afterward.
交通和食宿費可以之後申請
engineering n.工程
the work of designing and creating large structures (such as roads and bridges) or new products or systems by using scientific methods
- Taipei 101's engineering is revolutionary.
台北101的工程是個創舉
engineering 工程學
genetic engineering 基因工程學
engineer n. 工程師 v.設計, 製造
- The hybrid car was engineered to save energy.
這部油電車是為了節能而設計的
as strange as it sounds
canal n. man made water way
a long passage dug into the ground and filled with water, either for boats to travel along, or to take water to a place
concrete adj.
1 混凝土的, 水泥的
a very hard building material made by mixing together cement (= powdered substance), sand, small stones, and water
- The city is full of high-rise concrete buildings.
這個城巿充滿了高聳的水泥建築
2 具體的
- The police don't have any concrete evidence to prove the suspect committed the crime.
警方沒有具體的證據證明嫌犯有犯罪
showcase n.
an event or situation that is designed to show the good qualities of a person, organization, product etc
underneath adv. below or beneath 下面, 底下的
below or beneath (something) : under
- I crawled underneath the truck to get my cat.
我從卡車底下去抓我的貓咪
underneath (preposition) 在...下面
- Howard always hides his keys underneath his doormat.
Howard 總是把他的鑰匙藏在腳踏墊下面
Pictures from Google images
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130321_283b0.wmv
Bridges come in many shapes and sizes, from simple spans to architectural wonders. People admire their beauty. The Sydney Harbor Bridge, Tower Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge draw countless
tourists each year.
Bridges are an important part of our transportation system, too. Imagine trying to get to work or school without any bridges.
Amazing design
While all bridges rely on careful engineering, some attract attention because of their interesting examples of design. The Magdeburg Water Bridge in Germany is a wonderful example and looks a lot like an optical illusion.
As strange as it sounds, the bridge connects two canals and allows their water to pass over the Elbe River. The bridge works like a "concrete bathtub" and helps boats avoid a long and difficult journey down the river.
Another showcase of bridge design is the Gateshead Millennium Bridge in England. The bridge is made of two steel arches that tip up to allow boats to pass underneath. Each time this self-cleaning bridge tips up, trash rolls along the bridge and into traps at either end.
Grammar Gym
While all [situation A], some [situation B].
"While all bridges rely on careful engineering, some attract attention because of their interesting examples of design. "
- While all students have classes from Monday through Friday, some take special classes on Saturdays.
- While all tourists visit the base of the waterfall some take the extra time to hike to the top of the waterfall.
Info Cloud
illusion n.
something that seems to be different from the way it really is
本文說到德國的寶格德水穚, 這做穚看起來像一個 optical illusion 視覺上的錯覺
英文中的 mirage 海市蜃樓, 就是一個 optical illusion 視覺上的錯覺
除此之外, 聽覺上的錯覺 auditory illusion / 觸覺上的錯覺 tactile illusion
Language Lab
span n.
the part of a bridge, arch etc that goes across from one support to another
transportation n.[noncount] 運輸, 運輸工具
the act or process of moving people or things from one place to another
trans 越過/port 運送
- Jason takes public transportation to save money.
Jason 搭乘公共交通工具來省錢
- The transportation and lodging can be reimbursed afterward.
交通和食宿費可以之後申請
engineering n.工程
the work of designing and creating large structures (such as roads and bridges) or new products or systems by using scientific methods
- Taipei 101's engineering is revolutionary.
台北101的工程是個創舉
engineering 工程學
genetic engineering 基因工程學
engineer n. 工程師 v.設計, 製造
- The hybrid car was engineered to save energy.
這部油電車是為了節能而設計的
as strange as it sounds
canal n. man made water way
a long passage dug into the ground and filled with water, either for boats to travel along, or to take water to a place
concrete adj.
1 混凝土的, 水泥的
a very hard building material made by mixing together cement (= powdered substance), sand, small stones, and water
- The city is full of high-rise concrete buildings.
這個城巿充滿了高聳的水泥建築
2 具體的
- The police don't have any concrete evidence to prove the suspect committed the crime.
警方沒有具體的證據證明嫌犯有犯罪
showcase n.
an event or situation that is designed to show the good qualities of a person, organization, product etc
underneath adv. below or beneath 下面, 底下的
below or beneath (something) : under
- I crawled underneath the truck to get my cat.
我從卡車底下去抓我的貓咪
underneath (preposition) 在...下面
- Howard always hides his keys underneath his doormat.
Howard 總是把他的鑰匙藏在腳踏墊下面
| The Sydney Harbor Bridge |
| The Tower Bridge |
| The Golden Gate Bridge |
mms://webvod.goodtv.tv/SC/20130321_283b0.wmv
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