TOEFL READING COMPREHENSION: XI

 

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A new study has found that the use of smartphones and other electronic devices can have a negative impact on sleep quality. The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, found that people who used their devices in the hour before bed were more likely to have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep.

The study involved 150 college students who were asked to keep a sleep diary for two weeks. The students were also asked to wear a device that tracked their sleep patterns. The researchers found that the students who used their devices in the hour before bed were more likely to have shorter sleep durations and to wake up more often during the night.

The researchers believe that the use of electronic devices in the hour before bed can disrupt sleep for a number of reasons. First, the light emitted from the screens of these devices can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate sleep. Second, the use of these devices can be stimulating and can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep.

The study's findings suggest that people who want to improve their sleep quality should avoid using electronic devices in the hour before bed. If you find it difficult to break this habit, you can try setting a timer for 30 minutes before bedtime and then putting your devices away. You can also try reading a book or listening to calming music instead of using electronic devices before bed.

Questions:

1. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT a reason why the use of electronic devices in the hour before bed can disrupt sleep?

• The light emitted from the screens of these devices can suppress the production of melatonin.

• The use of these devices can be stimulating and can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep.

• The use of these devices can lead to shorter sleep durations.

• The use of these devices can lead to more frequent awakenings during the night.

• The use of these devices can lead to increased levels of anxiety.

• The answer is Increased levels of anxiety. This is because the passage does not mention anxiety as a reason why the use of electronic devices in the hour before bed can disrupt sleep.

2. What is the main purpose of the passage?

• To inform readers about the negative impact of electronic devices on sleep quality.

• To persuade readers to stop using electronic devices in the hour before bed.

• To provide tips for improving sleep quality.

• To discuss the results of a study on the use of electronic devices and sleep quality.

• To describe the effects of light on sleep quality.

• The answer is To inform readers about the negative impact of electronic devices on sleep quality. This is because the passage provides information about the negative effects of electronic devices on sleep quality, and it does not attempt to persuade readers to stop using electronic devices or to provide tips for improving sleep quality.

Practice Quizzes on: Essential Grammar and Vocabulary