What physical mechanisms most probably caused the very long cracks and streaks that crisscross the surface of Europa,a moon of Jupiter?
A) They are the tops of gigantic greenhouses built by inhabitants of Europa to protect their cucumber crops.
B) They are frozen rivers that,in warmer times,flowed across the moon's surface.
C) Volcanic eruptions caused lava flows that then froze in place.
D) Tidal flexing and cracking of the surface,with subsurface fluids gushing upward and freezing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most probable physical mechanism that caused the very long cracks and streaks that crisscross the surface of Europa is tidal flexing and cracking of the surface, with subsurface fluids gushing upward and freezing. Europa is subject to strong tidal forces from Jupiter, which causes the moon's shape to flex and deform, leading to the formation of cracks and fractures on the surface. Additionally, subsurface ocean water may also periodically gush up through these cracks and freeze, creating the unique surface features seen on Europa.

What Physical Mechanisms Most Probably Caused the Very Long Cracks