The differentiated structure of Europa
is similar to that of Earth

Seismic data of the Earth has led to a model of the its interior:

• crust approximately 30 kilometers thick

• mantle approximately 2,840 kilometers thick

• core, radius of approximately 3,500 kilometers thick (outer liquid core and inner solid core)
  

Both Europa and Earth:

• are differentiated (gravitationally separated layers)

• have a solid metallic (iron, nickel) core

• have a mantle whose convection causes motions of the crust (tectonics)

• have a geologically young surface

• contain all three phases of water (solid, liquid, vapor)

• have free oxygen in their atmosphere

(Source:  http://www.solarviews.com/cap/earth/earthint.htm )

back | next