How is Jupiter's outermost Galilean moon, Callisto, typically characterized regarding geological activity?
Answer
As a heavily battered, geologically dead world that has dissipated initial heat
Callisto, the outermost of the Galilean moons, stands in sharp contrast to its active inner siblings. It is frequently described as a geologically dead world, characterized by a heavily battered and ancient surface covered extensively by impact craters. This inactivity is due to its greater distance from Jupiter and an orbital path that lacks the tight resonant coupling that continuously flexes Io, Europa, and Ganymede, meaning it has lost its initial formation heat over time.
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