Home > School and Learning > By Subject > Science and Health > Astronomy > Moons of the Solar System

Slideshow Iconslideshows MORE

|

Moons of the Solar System

Previous
4 of 10
europajupiter
Next

Europa

Unlike Callisto, Jupiter's moon Europa has very few craters, which adds to the evidence that the moon is geologically active and possibly has a liquid ocean not far beneath its icy surface. Imagine breaking ice cubes out of an ice tray. Any liquid water in the tray will try to fill in the cracks as it seeps out. The surface of Europa is very similar. If a crack forms in the ice, or a meteor punches a hole in it, the liquid underneath will quickly fill in the gap. This is why Europa has an almost uniform surface, marked by very few craters.

Fun Fact: Where there is water, there could be life. If life does exist on Europa, it is probably supported by undersea volcanic vents much like the ones that help life exist at extreme ocean depths of Earth.

Next: Ganymede

Infoplease

Provided by Infoplease—an authoritative, comprehensive reference website that offers an encyclopedia, a dictionary, an atlas, and several almanacs. Visit Infoplease.com to find more resources endorsed by teachers and librarians.

you might also like:

from our community:

what’s hot

  1. Top 10 End-of-the-Year Gifts for Teachers
  2. 10 Gender-Predicting Old Wives' Tales
  3. Top 12 Fundraising Ideas
  4. VIEW ALL

stay connected

Sign up for our free email newsletters and receive the latest advice and information on all things parenting.

Enter your email address to sign up or manage your account.

Facebook icon Twitter icon Follow Us on Pinterest

editor’s picks

highlights

8 Printable Thank-You Cards for Teachers
As the end of the school year approaches, it's nice to thank your favorite educators for all their hard work. Print any of these free printable teacher appreciation cards to show your gratitude in a cute and simple way.

Great Gift Ideas for Dad's First Father's Day
Every dad's first Father's Day is a special one. Honor Daddy's important new role with a fun and heartfelt gift from you and your baby.

Explore Funbrain Jr. with Your Preschooler
Looking for fun online games, adorable stories, and cool printables for preschoolers and kindergartners? Check out the new Funbrain Jr., a fun place to learn for children ages 2 to 6.

11 Succulent Vegetarian Recipes for the Grill
Barbecue season isn't just for meat-lovers! These vegetarian recipes for the grill are a healthy and delicious alternative to typical barbecue fare.