Chapter 13, Problem 17A

Why are ocean tides higher at the time of a full moon?

To determine

To explain: The reason for higher ocean tides at the time of a full moon.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Tides in the ocean is the rise or fall of the ocean level. The high and low tide in the sea is the collective effect of the gravitational force of the sun and moon.

The effect of the moon’s gravity generates the tidal force. Tidal force is based on the concept gravitational force. In case of tidal force, distance between the two object is more critical than their masses. The effect of sun on the tidal force on the earth is greater than the moon. Bulges is formed on the earth due to tidal force. The bulging of the water is formed on the earth’s closest side and opposite to the earth, that is farther from the moon. The difference in the observation of bulging of water on the surface of water is due to differential nature of the tidal force. These bulges of water are nothing but the high tide. The high tides observed in some region on the earth where bulge is observed, while the place where bulges are absent in low tide region. Tide height increases when the moon’s gravitational force increases. When moon is clearly seen by naked eyes, the effect of gravity is more, in that case tide height is more.

Conclusion:

Therefore, due to the high tidal force observed when full moon is seen. Due to that high tidal force, tide height in the ocean increases.