Physical Chemistry of Ices in the Outer Solar System

The major icy satellites of the outer planets are recognized as complex planet-like objects with unique geologic histories and their own cryogenic versions of the igneous and tectonic processes that shape Earth and other rocky planets. The volcanological nature, surface compositions, internal structures, and overall geologic histories of icy satellites depend considerably on the satellites’icy compositions and the physical properties and phase behavior of these ices. Selected data pertinent to cryovolcanism and melting processes of icy satellites are reviewed here.