Science Daily reported yesterday that the volcanoes on Jupiter's moon Io are in the wrong place, at least according to astronomer's models.
Io is the most volcanically active object in the solar system. It is pulled into an oval-shaped orbit by the moons Ganymede and Europa. This eccentric orbit around Jupiter results in a large difference in the amount of gravitational force the huge planet exerts on its moon. When Io moves closer to Jupiter, the moon deforms toward the planet, and when it moves away, it relaxes. So, as it orbits, Io is constantly flexing, and the movement is believed to cause what is called tidal heating. The friction of these movements is believed to be enough to melt rock, resulting in the volcanic activity observed on Io.
Except that scientist's models do not seem to accurately predict where Io's volcanoes have formed. Most of the volcanic activity is located 30 to 60 degrees east of where it is expected. This discrepancy means that the current model of tidal heating needs to be revised in order to explain what has been observed. The new data suggests there is a magma ocean under Io's surface that helps circulate the heat from tidal heating.
New insight into the action of tidal heating could have implications for the hunt for extraterrestrial life. Tidal heating is believed to be responsible for oceans of liquid water under the icy crusts of Europa, where it is believed life could exist. A better understanding of tidal heating could help scientists understand how the process may help support life on icy worlds.
Comments