The required heating of the large Galilean moon Io of Jupiter in order to produce volcanic activity is probably caused by
A) tidal distortion by Jupiter and its other moons.
B) its original heat of formation.
C) nuclear fission within its interior.
D) radioactive elements in its surface.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The volcanic activity on Io, one of Jupiter's large moons, is primarily caused by tidal distortion. This is a result of the gravitational interactions between Io, Jupiter, and the other Galilean moons, which stretch and squeeze Io, generating internal friction and heat that drive its volcanic activity.

The Required Heating of the Large Galilean Moon Io of Jupiter