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General Discussion => Science & Nature => Topic started by: sam on January 31, 2010, 23:46

Title: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: sam on January 31, 2010, 23:46
http://www.universetoday.com/2010/01/25/one-of-jupiters-moons-is-melted/

Quote
Jupiter's two moons Ganymede and Callisto could be considered fraternal twins. They have a similar composition and size, but visually, they are different. Also, data from the Galileo and Voyager spacecraft reveal the two moons' interiors are very dissimilar, as well. The reasons for the differences have eluded scientists for 30 years, but a new study provides an explanation. During the Late Heavy Bombardment, Callisto escaped relatively unscathed, while Ganymede was a battered child; so much so that the later moon melted. "Impacts during this period melted Ganymede so thoroughly and deeply that the heat could not be quickly removed," said Dr. Amy Barr of the Southwest Research Institute. "All of Ganymede's rock sank to its center the same way that all the chocolate chips sink to the bottom of a melted carton of ice cream. Callisto received fewer impacts at lower velocities and avoided complete melting."
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Simon on February 01, 2010, 00:17
I've heard the name Ganymede before somewhere.  Can't think where, but probably in one of the fantasy novels I used to read.
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: sam on February 01, 2010, 00:55
well it is the largest moon in the Solar System...

Its used in lots of fiction: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter%27s_moons_in_fiction#Ganymede

Also Red Dwarf - Lister sings "To Ganymede and Titan, yes sir, I've been around"
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Simon on February 01, 2010, 07:29
I never watch Red Dwarf all that much.
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Rik on February 01, 2010, 09:41
I thought it was where the Magna Carta was signed.  :o:
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Clive on February 01, 2010, 09:42
I've heard the name Ganymede before somewhere.  

Maybe HERE  (http://www.pc-pals.com/smf/index.php?topic=30543.0) Simon.  
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Simon on February 01, 2010, 10:36
I'll have to look later, Clive.  :)
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: sam on February 03, 2010, 01:10
Maybe HERE  (http://www.pc-pals.com/smf/index.php?topic=30543.0) Simon.  

promoting ones on posts... gosh some people will stoop so low...
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Simon on February 03, 2010, 09:50
promoting ones on posts... gosh some people will stoop so low...

Well, he has to get someone to read them.    ::) :laugh:
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Clive on February 03, 2010, 10:07
Even if it's only myself!   :laugh:
Title: Re: One of Jupiter's Moons is Melted!
Post by: Simon on February 03, 2010, 11:08
:)x