1974/12/06 by F. P. Fanale, T. V. Johnson, D. L. Matson · 2 citations
Physics and Astronomy · #Astro and Planetary Science #Stellar, planetary, and galactic studies #Planetary Science and Exploration
paper · doi:10.1126/science.186.4167.922
openalex publication_date 1974/12/06 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/23
A model is suggested for Io's surface composition involving evaporite salt deposits, rich in sodium and sulfur. According to this model, these deposits were produced as a result of the migration of salt-saturated aqueous solutions to Io's surface from a warm or hot interior followed by loss of the water to space. This model satisfies cosmochemical constraints based on Io's initial composition, current density, and thermal history. Salt-rich assemblages are easily derivable from the leaching of carbonaceous chondritic material; the chemical and optical properties of such deposits, after modification by irradiation, can be used to explain Io's overall albedo and spectral reflectance, its dark reddish poles, and the observed sodium emission as well as or better than other currently suggested materials.