A new study suggests that convection in the crust could be driving force behind Venus’ volcanoes. The planet, known for its intense volcanic activity, is believed to have 85,000 volcanoes. Researchers used fluid dynamic modeling to show that Venus’ crust could support convection, which could explain how heat from the interior reaches the surface. Temperatures on Venus can reach as high as 870 degrees Fahrenheit (466 degrees Celsius), and scientists believe this heat could be transferred through the planet’s crust. The discovery provides new insight into the evolution of the planet and may shed light on the placement and type of volcanoes. Further research is needed to confirm the findings, but the study’s lead author says convection in the crust “could be a key missing mechanism.”
Source: https://www.space.com/the-universe/venus/scientists-may-have-just-found-the-driving-force-behind-venus-volcanos