What is a cryovolcano?
Quick Answer
A cryovolcano is a volcano that erupts icy or slushy materials instead of molten rock. They are thought to exist on icy worlds such as moons and dwarf planets.
The Full Story
Cryovolcanoes, sometimes called ice volcanoes, may erupt water, ammonia, methane, or other volatile substances that are liquid or slushy at extremely low temperatures. They are believed to occur on bodies such as Enceladus, Pluto, and possibly Triton. Unlike ordinary volcanoes on Earth, cryovolcanoes operate in frigid environments where rock is not the main material being erupted. Their study helps scientists understand how heat and internal activity work in the outer solar system.
Key Facts
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"A volcano made of ice instead of lava"
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