What specifically drives the extreme silicate volcanism observed on Jupiter's moon Io?
Answer
Intense flexing caused by Jupiter subjecting Io’s interior to enormous stress.
Io serves as the prime example of tidal heating leading to extreme geological processes. The moon is subjected to immense and powerful tidal stress due to its close proximity and orbital relationship with Jupiter. This intense flexing heats the mantle to temperatures high enough to sustain continuous silicate volcanism. This activity is so vigorous that the lava flows and sulfur plumes manifest as constant resurfacing, leading to the entire surface renewing itself on a relatively short geological timescale, estimated to be every few million years. This constant internal furnace requires the massive, dynamic energy input provided by Jupiter's tidal forces.
Related Questions
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