Which of the following is unique about Titan compared to other moons in the solar system?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

When evaluating what sets Titan apart from many other moons, we examine the facts in the options and contrast them with what is known about Titan and other moons.
Option 1: 'It is affected by tides from its planet' is not unique. Many moons, especially those in close orbits around giant planets, experience tidal forces due to their planet, so this trait is common rather than distinctive.
Option 2: 'It has geologic activity on its surface' is intriguing but not unique. While Titan shows some surface features and potential cryovolcanic processes have been proposed, not all moons with atmospheres or other characteristics are known to have clear, ongoing geologic activity, and Titan’s activity level is not uniquely distinguishing among the moons.
Option 3: 'It has a substantial atmosphere' is the hallmark feature often highlighted about Titan. Titan possesses a thick nitrogen-dominated atmosphere with methane, making it exceptional among moons since very few other moons have such dense atmospheres. This clarity of atmospheric presence is relatively unique and significant in distinguishing Titan.
Option 4: 'It has liquid water' is misleading as Titan’s surface liquids are methane and ethane, not liquid water. While there is interest in subsurface oceans beneath Titan’s ice shell, the presence of surface liquid water is not demonstrated, and the statement as written implies surface liquid water, which is not characteristic of Titan's surface.
In summary, among the options, the standout distinctive feature is Titan’s substantial atmosphere, which is far more pronounced than what is observed on most other moons. This atmospheric attribute is the primary factor that makes Titan unique in the solar system context.

ASTR-1-45046-F25 Lecture: The Jovian Planets

Which of the following is unique about Titan compared to other moons in the solar system?

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