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Question

Difficulty: EasyWater Cycle and Oceanography

What primary force causes the periodic rise and fall of ocean water levels known as tides?

  1. A
    Atmospheric pressure differences from passing weather systems
  2. Gravitational pull exerted by the Moon and the Sun on Earth's oceansAnswer
  3. C
    Thermal energy transfer driven by deep mantle convection beneath the seabed
  4. D
    Phase changes driven by the continuous evaporation of surface seawater

Answer

Gravitational pull exerted by the Moon and the Sun on Earth's oceans
Ocean tides are regular, cyclical rises and falls of sea levels caused by the gravitational attraction between Earth, the Moon, and the Sun. The Moon's proximity makes it the dominant tidal driver, pulling water toward it and creating a complementary bulge on the opposite side of Earth.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the physical phenomenon described in the question.
The question asks for the primary mechanism responsible for ocean tides.
Understanding the definition of ocean tides isolates the relevant astronomical and physical forces.
2
Apply the principles of oceanography and celestial mechanics.
The gravitational forces of the Moon (primarily) and the Sun (secondarily) exert a differential pull on Earth's water bodies, creating tidal bulges.
As Earth rotates through these tidal bulges, coastal areas experience predictable high and low tides.

Key Concept

Ocean tides are periodic changes in ocean water height generated by the gravitational attraction of the Moon and the Sun acting on Earth.
Estimated Time:40s
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Topics

Water Cycle and Oceanography

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