Learning English Podcast - December 26, 2024
VOA Learning English Podcast - VOA Learning English
Deep Dive
Why might Saturn's rings be as old as the planet itself?
Recent research suggests that Saturn's rings could be 4.5 billion years old, the same age as the planet, due to their dirt-resistant nature. Computer modeling by a Japanese-led team showed that micrometeoroids hitting the rings turn into gas or liquid, leaving little residue and keeping the rings clean.
What investment plans did SoftBank announce with President-elect Donald Trump?
SoftBank Group plans to invest $100 billion in U.S. projects over the next four years, focusing on building AI infrastructure. This investment is expected to create 100,000 jobs, following a similar $50 billion investment promise made in 2016.
What were the top-searched sports events on Google in 2024?
The top-searched sports events in 2024 were the Copa America soccer competition, followed by the UEFA European Championship and cricket's Men's T20 World Cup.
Who were the top-searched sports stars on Google in 2024?
The top-searched sports stars in 2024 were Algerian boxer Imane Halif, American boxer Mike Tyson, and Spanish soccer player Lamin Yamal.
What were the most searched news topics on Google in 2024?
The most searched news topics in 2024 were the U.S. presidential election, excessive heat across the world, and the Paris Olympics.
What was the top-searched movie on Google in 2024?
The top-searched movie in 2024 was Disney and Pixar's 'Inside Out 2,' followed by Marvel's 'Deadpool and Wolverine' and the comedy film 'Salt Burn.'
What is the focus of VOA's new program 'Let's Learn English with Anna'?
The program aims to teach children American English through interactive questions, fun situations, and creative storytelling, featuring characters like Max the mailbox and Daisy the flower.
What is the significance of SoftBank's investment in AI infrastructure?
SoftBank's $100 billion investment in AI infrastructure aims to position the company as a leader in AI development, with CEO Masayoshi Son predicting AI will surpass human intelligence within 10 years and dominate industries.
What evidence supports the idea that Saturn's rings are older than previously thought?
Images from NASA's Cassini spacecraft showed no darkening of the rings from micrometeoroid impacts, suggesting the rings are older. Computer modeling further demonstrated that micrometeoroids turn into gas or liquid upon impact, leaving minimal residue.
What challenges does SoftBank face in fulfilling its U.S. investment promises?
SoftBank faces challenges in creating the promised 100,000 jobs, as past investments, like the $50 billion in 2016, did not clearly result in the expected job growth. Additionally, the specifics of the $100 billion investment remain unclear.
- Saturn's rings may be 4.5 billion years old, as old as the planet.
- Previous estimations placed the rings' age at 100-400 million years old.
- Computer modeling showed micrometeoroids become gas or liquid drops upon impact, leaving little residue.
Shownotes Transcript