Which of the four Galilean moons is characterized as the innermost, being primarily silicate rock, and having over 400 active volcanoes?
Answer
Io
Io, designated Jupiter I, is the innermost of the four Galilean moons and exhibits the most extreme geological activity known in the Solar System, boasting more than 400 active volcanoes. This activity is driven by the immense gravitational and tidal forces exerted by Jupiter due to Io's close orbital proximity. Furthermore, Io possesses the highest density among the four moons, reflecting its composition of primarily silicate rock surrounding a molten core. This contrasts sharply with the farther moons like Callisto, which is significantly less dense and more ice-dominated.
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