The 21st century has witnessed unprecedented technological advancements, significantly impacting various facets of human life. Among these advancements, three areas stand out for their profound implications: improvements in Quality of Life (QOL), the development of smart grids, and the rise of autonomous vehicles. While these innovations promise a brighter future, they also present complex challenges and potential drawbacks. Enhanced QOL is often associated with increased convenience, accessibility, and improved healthcare. Smart devices, high-speed internet, and telemedicine are transforming daily routines, offering unprecedented levels of comfort and efficiency. However, this progress is not without its costs. The digital divide, cybersecurity risks, and concerns about data privacy are significant obstacles to achieving truly equitable improvements in QOL for all members of society. Smart grids, utilizing advanced technologies like AI and IoT, aim to optimize energy distribution and enhance grid reliability. By integrating renewable energy sources and employing sophisticated control systems, smart grids promise a more sustainable and efficient energy infrastructure. This technology, however, necessitates substantial investments in infrastructure and faces challenges related to data management, cybersecurity, and the integration of diverse energy sources. The potential for large-scale power outages due to cyberattacks poses a considerable threat to societal stability. The advent of autonomous vehicles represents a further technological leap, promising safer and more efficient transportation. Proponents argue that self-driving cars will reduce traffic congestion and human error, leading to a significant decrease in accidents. However, the reality is far more nuanced. Questions surrounding liability in the event of accidents, the ethical implications of algorithmic decision-making in critical situations, and the potential for widespread job displacement in the transportation sector remain unresolved. Furthermore, the reliability and safety of autonomous systems in various weather and road conditions still require significant improvements. These three technological advancements – improvements in QOL, smart grids, and autonomous vehicles – are deeply interconnected. Their successful implementation hinges on addressing the associated challenges effectively and equitably. Failure to do so risks exacerbating existing inequalities and undermining the potential benefits of these innovations.
1. Which of the following is NOT a challenge associated with smart grids, as discussed in the passage?
2. According to the passage, what is a major concern regarding autonomous vehicles?
3. What is the central idea of the passage?
4. The passage suggests that the success of the three technological advancements depends on: