What is the MOST probable physical mechanism to have caused the very long cracks and streaks that crisscross the surface of Europa, one of the moons of Jupiter?
A) Volcanic eruptions caused lava flows, which then froze in place.
B) The "cracks" are frozen rivers that, in warmer times, were flowing across the moon's surface.
C) The "cracks" are actually the tops of gigantic greenhouses, built by inhabitants of Europa to protect their cucumber crops.
D) Tidal flexing by Jupiter and its moons cracked the icy surface, allowing subsurface fluids to gush out and freeze in place.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tidal flexing by Jupiter's strong gravitational pull causes Europa's icy surface to crack and move, allowing subsurface water or other fluids to escape and freeze, forming the observed patterns. This process is supported by observations and models of Europa's interaction with Jupiter and its other moons.

What Is the MOST Probable Physical Mechanism to Have Caused