8
QuizMultiple Choice

The Outer Planets — Quiz

Question 8 • Earth and Space Science

Which inference best explains why Io experiences the highest tidal heating among the moons shown?

Answer
A
Io is closer to the Sun than the other moons.
B
Io orbits the largest and most massive planet, increasing tidal forces.
C
Io is farther from its planet, reducing the effects of tidal energy.
D
Io has a thin atmosphere that allows more sunlight to reach its surface.

Explanation

Tidal heating comes from a moon being stretched and flexed by its planet’s gravity. Io orbits Jupiter, the largest and most massive planet, whose strong gravity produces powerful tidal forces. Being closer to the Sun or having a thin atmosphere does not explain this heating, and being farther from its planet would generally weaken tidal effects.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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