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Chapter 2: Problem 28

In the broadest terms, what causes tides?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Tides form due to the gravitational interactions between Earth, Moon, and Sun, which create tidal forces. Two tidal bulges form on Earth: one facing the Moon (stronger gravity) and one on the opposite side (weaker gravity and Earth's centrifugal force). As Earth rotates, locations experience high and low tides by passing through these bulges. The Sun's gravitational force influences the tidal range: when aligned with the Earth and Moon, it creates Spring tides with higher high tides and lower low tides; when at a right angle, it leads to Neap tides with smaller tidal ranges.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Gravity and Tidal Forces

The first aspect to understand is gravity, which is the force of attraction between two masses. In the context of tides, the primary gravitational interactions are between Earth, Moon, and the Sun. Gravity decreases with distance, so the side of the Earth closer to the Moon experiences a stronger gravitational force than the side farther away, leading to a difference known as tidal force.
02

Explaining the Formation of Tidal Bulges

Due to the tidal force, two tidal bulges form on the Earth. One bulge is formed on the side facing the Moon due to the stronger gravitational force, while the other bulge forms on the opposite side of the Earth due to the combination of weaker gravitational force and Earth's centrifugal force (a result of Earth's rotation). These bulges cause the sea level to rise in the respective areas, creating high tides.
03

Earth's Rotation and Tidal Cycle

Earth rotates on its axis, completing one rotation every 24 hours. As the Earth rotates, different locations pass through the tidal bulges, experiencing high tides. In between the tidal bulges, the sea level is lower, leading to low tides. Consequently, a location on Earth usually experiences two high tides and two low tides in a 24-hour period.
04

The Role of the Sun

The Sun's gravitational force also plays a role in the formation of tides, although it is weaker than the Moon's due to its distance from Earth. The position of the Sun relative to the Earth and Moon affects the tides' range (the difference between high and low tide). When the Sun, Earth, and Moon align (during a full moon or new moon), the gravitational forces of the Sun and Moon combine to create Spring tides, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides. Conversely, when the Sun, Earth, and Moon form a right angle (during a first-quarter or last-quarter moon), the Sun's gravitational force partially cancels out the Moon's force, leading to smaller tidal ranges known as Neap tides.

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