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Chapter 13: Problem 10

Io has no impact craters on its surface, while our Moon is covered with craters. What is the explanation for this difference?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The difference in the number of impact craters on the moon Io compared to our Moon can be attributed to the extreme volcanic activity on Io which continuously remodels its surface, erasing any asteroid impacts, and the protection granted by Jupiter's strong magnetic field which deflects some incoming asteroids.

Step by step solution

01

Understand General Characteristics

Recognize that the Moon is our nearest neighbor in space and has no atmosphere, geological activity or weather that would erase the evidence of asteroid impacts. It is also not protected by the magnetic field of a larger planet, which could deflect solar radiation that makes it a target for asteroids.
02

Understand Io's Characteristics

Io, in contrast, is the most volcanically active body in the solar system. It is covered with sulfur and sulfur dioxide, and its lower gravity makes it easier for material to escape into space. Furthermore, it is magnetically linked to Jupiter, its larger host planet which has a strong magnetic field that can help deflect solar radiation and hence, incoming asteroids.
03

Compare the Two Celestial Bodies

Comparing the two moons, one might conclude that while our Moon's surface retains the crater marks because of the lack of geological or weather activity, Io's intense volcanic activity is continually resurfacing the moon, filling in any potential impact craters from asteroids. Additionally, Jupiter's strong magnetic field likely protects Io to some degree from asteroid impacts.

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