![]() Due to the strong dependence on melt, Io's volcanic activity hints at the dynamics beneath the surface and can therefore be used to improve our understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The physical state of Io’s interior, the driving tidal dissipation and heat transport mechanisms are unknown, however, form a strongly interconnected system: 1) Io’s internal temperature and melt distribution are controlled by tidal dissipation and heat loss processes 2) The total amount and pattern of tidal dissipation depend on the rheological properties of Io's interior 3) These rheological properties, in turn, depend on the internal temperature and melt distribution. It is therefore the best place to study fundamental processes important for the early evolution of terrestrial planets, and the habitability of icy satellites and terrestrial exoplanets subject to tidal heating. Caught in the Laplace resonance with the Galilean moons Ganymede and Europa, Io is the most tidally heated and volcanically active world in the Solar System. The reason for this appearance is extensive tidal heating in the moon's interior. Io's spectacular and unique appearance is characterised by its yellowish surface, colourful lava deposits, and black calderas. (TU Delft Astrodynamics & Space Missions) The Curious Case of Io - Connections Between Interior Structure, Tidal Heating and Volcanism ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |