Jupiter's moon Io is thought to be the volcanically active world in our solar system.What is the inferred source of heat?
A)Very high abundances of radioactive elements have been detected on the planet.
B)Io has a strong magnetic field as does Jupiter,so as Io moves through Jupiter's magnetic field,large electrical currents are generated,which heat the planet.
C)Io is close to Jupiter,and the strong tidal forces on planet produce frictional heating of the planet.
D)It is a mystery; it should be very cold because it is the same size as the moon but far from the sun.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Io is close to Jupiter, and the strong tidal forces of Jupiter have a significant impact on the moon. The forces stretch and compress Io's interior, which heats up due to frictional forces, resulting in volcanic activity.

Jupiter's Moon Io Is Thought to Be the Volcanically Active