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The electric toothbrush was originally developed in Switzerland in 1954 for people with limited mobility or those who wore orthodontic braces. However, it did not become a mass-market success until it was introduced to the United States in the 1960s. The first cordless model appeared in 1961, using rechargeable batteries. While early models were bulky, modern electric toothbrushes use ultrasonic technology and smart sensors to ensure effective cleaning, making them popular among general consumers today.

設問：The primary goal of the 1954 invention was to provide a luxury item for wealthy people.

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Many modern office buildings use “smart glass” to control the amount of light and heat entering through windows. This technology allows glass to change its tint from transparent to opaque using a small electrical charge. By reducing the need for air conditioning in summer and heating in winter, smart glass significantly lowers energy consumption. Although the initial cost of installation is higher than traditional glass, companies can recover these costs through long-term energy savings.

設問：Smart glass always remains opaque to ensure maximum privacy for office workers.

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In the early 20th century, the tea bag was popularized by a New York tea merchant named Thomas Sullivan. He sent tea samples to his customers in small silk pouches. Instead of opening the pouches and pouring the tea into a pot as Sullivan expected, the customers dropped the entire silk bag into hot water. The accidental convenience led to a sudden increase in orders. Later, silk was replaced by gauze and eventually paper to make the bags more affordable for mass production.

設問：Thomas Sullivan intended for his customers to use the silk pouches as filters for brewing tea.

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Vertical farming is an agricultural method where crops are grown in stacked layers, often in controlled indoor environments. This technique uses up to 90% less water than traditional soil-based farming because water is recycled within the system. Additionally, because vertical farms can be located in urban areas, the distance for transporting food to consumers is greatly reduced. However, the high energy consumption required for artificial lighting remains a major challenge for the industry’s sustainability.

設問：Vertical farming is currently the most profitable method of agriculture worldwide.

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The concept of “planned obsolescence” refers to a business strategy where products are designed with a limited useful life so they become unfashionable or non-functional after a certain period. This encourages consumers to purchase newer models. While this strategy can drive corporate profits and stimulate technological innovation, it has faced criticism for creating excessive electronic waste. Some European countries have introduced legislation that requires manufacturers to provide repair kits to extend product lifespans.

設問：Legislation in some European countries aims to counteract the effects of planned obsolescence.

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