Tidal ForceHardQuestion 30752
Question
Tidal forces on Earth are caused by:
- AThe average gravitational pull of the Moon
- BThe difference in Moon's gravitational pull across Earth's diameterCorrect
- CThe Sun's gravity only
- DEarth's rotation alone
Correct answer
The difference in Moon's gravitational pull across Earth's diameter
Explanation
The side of Earth facing the Moon experiences stronger pull than the centre, and the far side weaker. This differential (tidal) force stretches Earth, creating two tidal bulges and the twice-daily tides.