A study led by scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles, explains the mysterious
Enceladus, the sixth largest of Saturn's moons, is known for ejectingtiny icy particles of silica — so abundant that they are a key component of the second outer ring around Saturn, the E ring.
The researchers built a theoretical modelwhich could explain the transport of silica across the ocean on Enceladus. The moon's active geology is fueled by tidal forces as it orbits Saturn—the moon is pulled and squeezed by gravity. This deformation creates friction in both the moon's icy shell and its deep rocky core.
Hydrothermal vents on Enceladus. Image: Ashley Schoenfeld/UCLA; NASA JPL
Planetary scientists have found that friction heats the bottomocean sufficiently to create a current that carries silica particles to the surface. In addition, scientists discovered significant amounts of hydrogen gas in plumes emitted from cracks on the surface of Enceladus. Together with silica, this observation supports the theory and provides compelling evidence of hydrothermal activity on the ocean floor.
The researchers note that on Earth, similardeep-sea hydrothermal vents are home to a variety of different organisms that feed on the released minerals. The hydrothermal vents of Enceladus may also support the existence of primitive life forms.
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On the cover: a photograph of Enceladus. Image: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Space Science Institute