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Aeolian sediment transport on Io from lava–frost interactions

Author

Listed:
  • George D. McDonald

    (The State University of New Jersey)

  • Joshua Méndez Harper

    (University of Oregon)

  • Lujendra Ojha

    (The State University of New Jersey)

  • Paul Corlies

    (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

  • Josef Dufek

    (University of Oregon)

  • Ryan C. Ewing

    (Texas A&M University)

  • Laura Kerber

    (California Institute of Technology)

Abstract

Surface modification on Jupiter’s volcanically active moon, Io, has to date been attributed almost exclusively to lava emplacement and volcanic plume deposits. Here we demonstrate that wind-blown transport of sediment may also be altering the Ionian surface. Specifically, shallow subsurface interactions between lava and Io’s widespread sulfur dioxide (SO2) frost can produce localized sublimation vapor flows with sufficient gas densities to enable particle saltation. We calculate anticipated outgassing velocities from lava–SO2 frost interactions, and compare these to the saltation thresholds predicted when accounting for the tenuous nature of the sublimated vapor. We find that saltation may occur if frost temperatures surpass 155 K. Finally we make the first measurements of the dimensions of linear features in images from the Galileo probe, previously termed “ridges”, which demonstrate certain similarities to dunes on other planetary bodies. Io joins a growing list of bodies with tenuous and transient atmospheres where aeolian sediment transport may be an important control on the landscape.

Suggested Citation

  • George D. McDonald & Joshua Méndez Harper & Lujendra Ojha & Paul Corlies & Josef Dufek & Ryan C. Ewing & Laura Kerber, 2022. "Aeolian sediment transport on Io from lava–frost interactions," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 13(1), pages 1-9, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:13:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-022-29682-x
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29682-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. B. R. Edwards & A. Belousov & M. Belousova, 2014. "Propagation style controls lava–snow interactions," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 5(1), pages 1-5, December.
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