Io would probably be less active geologically if
A) its orbit were perfectly circular.
B) it were closer to Jupiter.
C) Europa and Ganymede were closer to it.
D) Jupiter did not rotate at such a high rate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Io's geological activity is largely driven by tidal heating, which is a result of its elliptical orbit causing varying gravitational forces from Jupiter. A perfectly circular orbit would reduce these tidal forces, thus decreasing geological activity.

Io Would Probably Be Less Active Geologically If