Jupiter's moons
Abstract
Models of the structure and chemical composition of Jupiter's moons and outer satellites are presented. Their origin and evolution are inferred from color photographs and direct measurements. Sulfur is proposed as the driving mechanism of Io's volcanic activity, either as element concentrated on the surface of the satellite and reworked to deeper regions through plate tectonics, or as S02, forced by artesian pressure to explode into an ice fog through faults. Ganymede consists mainly of silicates and water. Models of melting and solidification do not agree with Voyager observation. Accretian models predict central temperatures of 3000 K for Callisto. The regular satellites formed through homogeneous accretion of hydrous silicates.
- Publication:
-
Solar System and its Exploration
- Pub Date:
- November 1981
- Bibcode:
- 1981ESASP.164..179K
- Keywords:
-
- Amalthea;
- Callisto;
- Europa;
- Ganymede;
- Io;
- Chemical Composition;
- Deposition;
- Evolution (Development);
- Structural Properties (Geology);
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration