PTE Summarize Written Text Task Sample 260

Read the passage below and summarize it using one sentence. Type your response in the box at the bottom of the screen. You have 10 minutes to finish this task. Your response will be judged on the quality of your writing and on how well your response presents the key points in the passage.

Looking at the Cosmos: Fermi’s Paradox

The concept of the Fermi Paradox has puzzled scientists and astronomers for decades. Named after physicist Enrico Fermi, the paradox refers to the apparent contradiction between the high probability of extraterrestrial life in the universe and the lack of observable evidence or contact with advanced civilizations.

The Milky Way galaxy alone contains billions of stars, many of which are similar to our sun, and an even larger number of planets. Given the vastness of the universe and the potential for habitable conditions on other planets, it is statistically likely that extraterrestrial civilizations should exist. Yet, despite extensive efforts to search for extraterrestrial signals or signs of intelligent life, no conclusive evidence has been found.

The Fermi Paradox raises a multitude of hypotheses and theories. One possibility is that intelligent civilizations may be rare, short-lived, or self-destructive. Another theory suggests that advanced civilizations may exist but are intentionally avoiding contact with less advanced civilizations like ours. Alternatively, the limitations of our technology or our current methods of searching for extraterrestrial life may explain the paradox.

The search for answers to the Fermi Paradox continues through initiatives like the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) and advancements in space exploration. As our understanding of the universe deepens, the resolution of this paradox may provide profound insights into the nature of intelligent life, the longevity of civilizations, and the challenges of interstellar communication.

Summary:

The Fermi Paradox, questioning the absence of observable evidence for extraterrestrial civilizations despite the vastness of the universe, prompts various theories, including the rarity or self-destructive nature of intelligent life, intentional avoidance of contact, or limitations in our detection methods, with ongoing initiatives seeking answers through endeavors like SETI and advancements in space exploration.