What causes Io's distinctive yellow, orange, and black coloring?
Answer
The different allotropes of sulfur deposited by its eruptions
Io's distinct surface colors are largely attributable to the different physical forms (allotropes) of sulfur deposited continuously by its volcanic eruptions.
Related Questions
Which family of moons orbiting Jupiter is cited as holding vast reservoirs of materials for future exploration?What resource makes Europa the primary target for water and life sustenance materials?What carbon-bearing compound has the James Webb Space Telescope confirmed exists on Europa's icy surface?On Europa, where is sulfur residue heavily concentrated according to surface maps?What process involving Io is suspected to contribute to sulfur deposits on Europa?How have recent assessments modified expectations about oxygen generation via radiolysis on Europa?What is the fundamental driver behind Io's status as the most volcanically active world in the solar system?Which materials form the extensive deposits and plains characterizing Io's surface?What causes Io's distinctive yellow, orange, and black coloring?In Jupiter's differentiated moons, where are iron and nickel metals expected to be concentrated?What major barrier prevents easy access to metallic resources on Europa?