Structure of Europa. Cutaway computer artwork showing the interior of Europa, one of Jupiter's moons. Europa has a small metal core (light blue, centr
RMID:Image ID:2ACJ972
Image details
Contributor:
Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
2ACJ972File size:
50.3 MB (1.2 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
4350 x 4039 px | 36.8 x 34.2 cm | 14.5 x 13.5 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
3 March 2011Photographer:
GARY HINCKS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARYMore information:
Structure of Europa. Cutaway computer artwork showing the interior of Europa, one of Jupiter's moons. Europa has a small metal core (light blue, centre) surrounded by a large layer of rock (orange). The surface is thought to consist of an ocean of liquid water (blue) covered by a thick layer of ice (beige). It is thought the water beneath the surface ice is kept liquid by heat from tidal effects induced in Europa's interior by Jupiter's gravitational field. Major meteorite impacts would melt the ice, and the water would re-freeze as a smooth layer, which explains the lack of surface features.