What astronomical mechanism maintains Io’s intense volcanic activity through tidal flexing?
Answer
Orbital resonance between Io, Europa, and Ganymede
The interior of Io remains molten, driving its extreme volcanism, due to the complex gravitational interactions known as orbital resonance involving Io, Europa, and Ganymede. Orbital resonance occurs when the orbital periods of these three bodies are related to each other by simple whole number ratios. This synchronization means that each moon pulls on the others with a slightly varying but constant gravitational force over time. This periodic, rhythmic gravitational tug-of-war results in immense tidal flexing within Io's interior, which generates the substantial internal heat necessary to maintain widespread, continuous volcanic activity across its surface.
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