ACADEMIC LISTENING TEST PRACTICE
STEPHEN HAWKING - BIOGRAPHY
STEPHEN HAWKING - BIOGRAPHY
For Students Preparing for Academic Tests / IELTS and TOEFL
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Stephen Hawking was a renowned theoretical physicist, cosmologist, and author who made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the universe. He was born on January 8, 1942, in Oxford, England, and passed away on March 14, 2018.
Hawking was diagnosed with a rare form of motor neuron disease (also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease) at the age of 21, which eventually left him paralyzed and reliant on a wheelchair for mobility. Despite the progression of his disease, he continued to work and make significant contributions to science for more than 50 years.
Hawking's research focused on the properties of black holes and the origins of the universe. He proposed that black holes emit radiation, now known as Hawking radiation, which eventually causes them to evaporate and disappear. He also proposed that the universe began as a singularity, an infinitely dense and hot point in space-time that expanded rapidly to form the universe as we know it. These theories were groundbreaking and have had a significant impact on the field of cosmology.
Hawking was also a prolific author, writing several popular science books to help explain complex scientific concepts to a general audience. His book "A Brief History of Time" was published in 1988 and became a bestseller, making him a household name and popularizing the field of cosmology. He also wrote several other books, including "The Universe in a Nutshell" and "Black Holes and Baby Universes and Other Essays."
In addition to his scientific contributions, Hawking was also known for his sense of humor and ability to connect with people from all backgrounds. He made appearances on numerous television shows, including "The Simpsons" and "Star Trek: The Next Generation," and was known for his wit and ability to explain complex scientific concepts in an accessible way.
Hawking was also an advocate for people with disabilities and worked to raise awareness of the challenges they face. He used his platform to speak out about the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, and was a role model for people living with disabilities around the world.
Hawking received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, and the Copley Medal, the oldest scientific award in the world. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society and a member of the US National Academy of Sciences.
Stephen Hawking's contributions to science and his ability to popularize complex concepts have had a significant impact on our understanding of the universe and have inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in science. His legacy will continue to influence scientific research and inspire future generations.
Hawking was diagnosed with a rare form of motor neuron disease (also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease) at the age of 21, which eventually left him paralyzed and reliant on a wheelchair for mobility. Despite the progression of his disease, he continued to work and make significant contributions to science for more than 50 years.
Hawking's research focused on the properties of black holes and the origins of the universe. He proposed that black holes emit radiation, now known as Hawking radiation, which eventually causes them to evaporate and disappear. He also proposed that the universe began as a singularity, an infinitely dense and hot point in space-time that expanded rapidly to form the universe as we know it. These theories were groundbreaking and have had a significant impact on the field of cosmology.
Hawking was also a prolific author, writing several popular science books to help explain complex scientific concepts to a general audience. His book "A Brief History of Time" was published in 1988 and became a bestseller, making him a household name and popularizing the field of cosmology. He also wrote several other books, including "The Universe in a Nutshell" and "Black Holes and Baby Universes and Other Essays."
In addition to his scientific contributions, Hawking was also known for his sense of humor and ability to connect with people from all backgrounds. He made appearances on numerous television shows, including "The Simpsons" and "Star Trek: The Next Generation," and was known for his wit and ability to explain complex scientific concepts in an accessible way.
Hawking was also an advocate for people with disabilities and worked to raise awareness of the challenges they face. He used his platform to speak out about the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, and was a role model for people living with disabilities around the world.
Hawking received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, and the Copley Medal, the oldest scientific award in the world. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society and a member of the US National Academy of Sciences.
Stephen Hawking's contributions to science and his ability to popularize complex concepts have had a significant impact on our understanding of the universe and have inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in science. His legacy will continue to influence scientific research and inspire future generations.
Stephen Hawking at a conference in Italy
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