Based on the information in Scientist 1's view, which of the following materials must be present on Europa if a magnetic field is to be generated on Europa? Dissolved salts Frozen nitrogen Molten magma Water ice

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Question

Based on the information in Scientist 1's view, which of the following materials must be present on Europa if a magnetic field is to be generated on Europa? Dissolved salts Frozen nitrogen Molten magma Water ice

Answer 1

Dissolved salts

Answer 2

To answer this question, we need to understand how magnetic fields are generated in planetary bodies. A magnetic field is typically produced by the movement of electrically conductive material within the body. This process is known as the dynamo effect. The dynamo effect requires the presence of a conductive material and enough energy to keep it moving. In the context of planetary bodies like moons or planets, this conductive material is often in the form of a liquid metallic core (like Earth's iron core), but can also be other conductive materials. 1. **Dissolved salts**: These can contribute to the conductivity of an ocean or other liquid body. If Europa has a subsurface ocean with dissolved salts, it could be conductive enough to participate in generating a magnetic field, particularly if the ocean is in motion. 2. **Frozen nitrogen**: This is not conductive and would not contribute to the generation of a magnetic field. 3. **Molten magma**: If present, molten magma can be conductive, especially if it contains metallic elements. However, in the context of Europa, a moon of Jupiter, the presence of molten magma is less likely compared to an ocean. 4. **Water ice**: While water ice itself is not particularly conductive, the presence of water ice on Europa suggests the possibility of a subsurface ocean, which, if it contains dissolved salts, could be conductive. Given these considerations, the most likely candidate to contribute to the generation of a magnetic field on Europa, as per Scientist 1's view, would be a subsurface ocean with dissolved salts. The movement of this conductive saline water could potentially generate a magnetic field through the dynamo effect.

Question

Based on the information in Scientist 1's view, which of the following materials must be present on Europa if a magnetic field is to be generated on Europa? Dissolved salts Frozen nitrogen Molten magma Water ice

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