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Io - Geochemistry of sulfurThe evidence from Voyager imaging, Earth-based spectral reflectivity studies, and thermal emission measurements combine to suggest an extremely fresh, volcanically recycled sulfur-rich crust for Io, with very shallow large-scale melting. Two present styles of volcanism are possible, depending on the thickness of local deposits of sulfur: shallow liquid sulfur magma generation with quiescent flooding, and high-temperature volcanism with violet eruption of a sulfur-iron magma driven by SO2. Evolutionary considerations preclude direct derivation of Io's lithosphere from any metal-bearing chondritic source material. Metal-free C3V- or C2M-type parent material of either primary or secondary origin is the most plausible direct antecedent of the present sulfur-rich crust. Sulfates are almost certainly important constituents of the mantle, and can participate in the recycling of reduced, dense sulfide species to prevent total extraction of sulfur into the core.
Document ID
19820056833
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Lewis, J. S.
(MIT, Cambridge, MA; Arizona, University Tucson, AZ, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
April 1, 1982
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 50
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
82A40368
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-22-009-521
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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