StarTalk Radio Cosmic Queries – Space Volcanoes: Fire and Ice with Natalie Starkey
Oct 5, 2021
In this engaging discussion, cosmochemist Natalie Starkey, author of 'Fire and Ice,' explores the intriguing world of volcanoes beyond Earth. She sheds light on ice volcanoes and their potential for life, as well as the awe-inspiring Olympus Mons on Mars. The conversation also delves into supervolcanoes like Yellowstone, the geological processes behind volcanic chains, and even the challenges of studying extraterrestrial eruptions. With humor and fascinating insights, Starkey reveals the wonders and dangers of volcanology across the solar system.
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Ice Volcanoes
- Most volcanoes beyond the asteroid belt are ice volcanoes, erupting plumes of icy materials like water, ammonia, and methane.
- These eruptions contribute to features like Saturn's E-ring, formed by icy particles from Enceladus's plumes.
Cryovolcano Eruptions
- Ice volcanoes erupt due to tidal heating, not fire, where gravitational forces cause internal friction and melt subsurface ice.
- This melted ice, mixed with gases and other materials, erupts as plumes, potentially containing organic molecules and even signs of life.
Magma vs. Lava
- Magma is molten rock below the surface, becoming lava when erupted.
- Mountains form from accumulated lava and ash, exploding when gas pressure builds up in the rising magma.
