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[Aetius1]

I recently read, "Jupiter Odyssey", by David M. Harland. On page 298, the author states that a bidirectional electron flow links Io to Jupiter's polar regions, aligned with the gas giant's  magnetic field lines. The "Io flux tube", as it is called, has a current of several million amps, and transfers about one trillion watts of electricity into Jupiter's atmosphere.

Putting aside "Red" objections to altering the original state of the planet's near-space environment, do you think it would be hypothetically possible for colonists in the Jovian system to extract the energy and retransmit it to settlements elsewhere in Jupiter's orbit?

[clifdweller]

I think it's theoretically possible.I also think it's possible to harness the electrons captured by this planet as well.However,by the time we settle the Jovian system,I think we will have our energy problems figured out.

[Steveeightytwo]

It has also been postulated that these currents are what really are the force behind the volcanoes on Io.  When the currents interact with the surface, the heat and melt the material that gives rise to what was believedto be volcanic activity.

[Ricimer]

The stimulation from these electric currents might be able to melt large quantities of rock, but I doubt it would create volcanic activity.  Since Io is a conductor (like most solid, rocky planet types are) the charge will travel the surface, creating placid pools of liquified rock.  It won't move to far into the ground and so the lava wouldn't be under pressure and wouldn't erupt.

Last I heard the volcanic activity was attributed to the tidal forces on Io, which are immense.  These kneed the planet, liquifiying parts and creating stress faults for it to erupt from.