Cryovolcanism or subsurface heating mechanisms explain Pluto's young surface.
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 82/100
Multiple studies utilizing New Horizons data confirm that cryovolcanism and internal heating mechanisms are responsible for Pluto's surprisingly young and geologically active surface features.
Evidence for · 2
Detection of ammonia on Pluto's surface in a region of geologically recent tectonism.
2019 · cited by 12
The detection of short-lived ammonia and H2O ice in regions of tectonic activity points toward cryovolcanic emplacement and ongoing geological activity on Pluto.
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More for · 1
Large-scale cryovolcanic resurfacing on Pluto.
2022 · cited by 1
Analysis of geomorphology and composition confirms that massive features on Pluto were formed by large-scale cryovolcanic resurfacing, requiring internal heat to mobilize water-ice-rich materials.