The Evolution of Icy Tectonic on the Europa Satellite, the Fourth Largest Satellite of Jupiter

Abstract

In view of morphology and tectonic situation, the surface of the Europa satellite includes special intricacies. In general, the most noticeable structure on this satellite is linear structures. These structures generally appear in the form of bands, ridge bands, double ridges, complex ridges and troughs. To identify the stress fields, which cause the formation of the linear structures, extension ridges, shear zone faults and superimposed linear structures, the condensation resulting from the ebb and flow on the surface of the Europa satellite has formed extension ridges on the icy crust surface. Considering the lack of subduction zones on the surface of the satellite, increase in the area of the crust resulted in the formation of stress zones in the vicinity of the ridges. In such stress zones conjugate fractures are formed. Therefore, it may be argued that the formation of pressure and extension structures take place simultaneously.