What is the MOST probable physical mechanism to have caused the very long cracks and streaks that criss-cross the surface of Europa,one of the moons of Jupiter?
A) Volcanic eruptions caused lava flows, which then froze in place.
B) The "cracks" are frozen rivers that, in warmer times, were flowing across the moon's surface.
C) The "cracks" are actually the tops of gigantic greenhouses, built by inhabitants of Europa to protect their cucumber crops.
D) Tidal flexing by Jupiter cracked the icy surface, allowing subsurface fluids to gush out and freeze in place.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Europa experiences tidal flexing due to its orbit around Jupiter, which causes the moon's icy surface to deform and crack. This allows subsurface fluids to escape and then freeze, resulting in the long cracks and streaks seen on Europa's surface. Option A is unlikely, as there is no evidence of volcanic activity on Europa, and option B is also unlikely as there is no evidence of liquid water on the moon's surface. Option C is purely speculative and has no scientific basis.

What Is the MOST Probable Physical Mechanism to Have Caused