Digest

Scientists in Indonesia have discovered the world's oldest known cave painting, located inside a cave called Leang Carom Pwang in South Sulawesi Province. Using a laser to date crystal structures of calcium carbonate on top of the painting, researchers determined it was created at least 51,200 years ago. The painting, a dark red color, depicts a pig and three human-like images, suggesting it is the oldest known evidence of storytelling in art. The researchers believe the position of the human figures near the pig gives the painting a feeling of action, implying a story is being told. This discovery challenges the previous notion that Europe was the birthplace of cave art, as the Indonesian painting is older than the oldest known cave painting in Europe, located at El Castillo in Spain, dating back about 40,800 years ago. The researchers also used the laser to date another cave painting on Sulawesi, called Leang Bulu Sipong 4, which depicts part human, part animal figures hunting pigs and small buffalo. This discovery provides valuable insights into the early development of human art and storytelling.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the Learning English podcast, a daily 30-minute program designed for English learners. The hosts, Ashley Thompson and Mario Ritter, Jr., introduce themselves and the program's format, which includes slower speech and vocabulary tailored for English language learners. They also preview the day's program, featuring reports from Andrew Smith and Anna Mateo, a technology report by Brian Lynn, and a lesson of the day from Andrew Smith and Jill Robbins.

00:00:57

World's Oldest Cave Painting Discovered in Indonesia

This Chapter discusses the discovery of the world's oldest known cave painting on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. Scientists used a laser to date the painting, finding it was created at least 51,200 years ago. The painting, located in a cave called Leang Carom Pwang, depicts a pig and three human-like images, suggesting it is the oldest known evidence of storytelling in art. The researchers believe the position of the human figures near the pig gives the painting a feeling of action, implying a story is being told. This discovery challenges the previous notion that Europe was the birthplace of cave art, as the Indonesian painting is older than the oldest known cave painting in Europe, located at El Castillo in Spain, dating back about 40,800 years ago.

00:05:51

Pet Weddings on the Rise in China

This Chapter explores the growing trend of pet weddings in China, particularly among dog owners. The popularity of pets and a willingness to spend money on pet weddings are driving the increase, as evidenced by the rising spending on pets in China. The chapter highlights the story of Bree and Bond, two golden retrievers who had a dream wedding ceremony complete with photographers, wedding certificates, and a custom-made cake. The owners, Rye Ling and Gigi Chen, carefully planned the ceremony for months, showcasing the increasing acceptance and celebration of pets as part of the family.

00:09:17

NASCAR Introduces First Electric Vehicle Model

This Chapter discusses NASCAR's introduction of its first electric vehicle (EV) model, a significant step in the organization's sustainability efforts. The EV model, developed in collaboration with Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, and ABB, was demonstrated at NASCAR's Chicago Street Race. The vehicle, worth $1.5 million, provides a different driving experience compared to gasoline-powered race cars, with a focus on the sounds and sensations of braking and tire noise. NASCAR plans to use the EV model to explore fan interest in electric vehicles and potentially expand its sustainability efforts by establishing more charging stations at its tracks. The organization also has longer-term plans for sustainable racing fuel, recycling, and using 100% renewable electricity at its events.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the significance of the newly discovered cave painting in Indonesia?

  The cave painting, located in Leang Carom Pwang, is significant because it is the oldest known cave painting in the world, dating back at least 51,200 years. It provides evidence of early storytelling in art, challenging the previous notion that Europe was the birthplace of cave art.

• How did the researchers determine the age of the cave painting?

  The researchers used a laser to date crystal structures of calcium carbonate that formed naturally on top of the painting. This method, known as uranium-series dating, is considered a reliable way to determine the age of ancient artifacts.

• What is the subject matter of the cave painting?

  The painting depicts a pig and three human-like images, suggesting a scene of interaction or storytelling. The researchers believe the position of the human figures near the pig gives the painting a feeling of action, implying a story is being told.

• What is NASCAR's goal in introducing its first electric vehicle model?

  NASCAR aims to explore fan interest in electric vehicles and potentially expand its sustainability efforts by establishing more charging stations at its tracks. The organization also has longer-term plans for sustainable racing fuel, recycling, and using 100% renewable electricity at its events.

• What are the key differences between NASCAR's EV model and traditional gasoline-powered race cars?

  The EV model provides a different driving experience, with a focus on the sounds and sensations of braking and tire noise. It lacks the engine sounds, smells, and heat that are characteristic of gasoline-powered race cars.

• What are some of the sustainability initiatives that NASCAR is implementing?

  NASCAR plans to team up with ABB to establish more charging stations for EV drivers attending races at its tracks. The organization also has longer-term plans for sustainable racing fuel, recycling, and using 100% renewable electricity at its events. NASCAR aims to cut its operating carbon output to net zero by 2035.

• What is the potential impact of NASCAR's EV model on the future of motorsports?

  NASCAR's EV model could increase interest in expanding electric vehicle technology, especially among younger fans. The organization is exploring the possibility of launching an EV racing series in the future, but it is not a near-term goal.

• What is the significance of the collaboration between NASCAR and various automakers and electrical equipment companies?

  The collaboration between NASCAR and companies like Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, and ABB demonstrates the growing importance of electric vehicle technology in the motorsports industry. It also highlights the potential for innovation and collaboration in developing sustainable racing solutions.

Show Notes