What mechanism keeps Europa's subsurface ocean liquid despite being far from the Sun?
Answer
Gravitational kneading from Jupiter generating internal heat
Europa maintains its massive subsurface saltwater ocean in a liquid state due to powerful tidal forces exerted by its parent planet, Jupiter. This constant gravitational flexing or kneading generates substantial internal friction and heat within the moon's interior. This internally sourced thermal energy counteracts the frigid external environment, preventing the water from freezing solid, thus creating a dynamic liquid environment deep beneath the icy shell that is independent of direct stellar energy input.
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