Multiple choice

Tides in the oceans are caused by

  1. gravitational pull of the moon on the earth's surface including sea water

  2. gravitational pull of the sun on the earth's surface only and not on the sea water

  3. gravitational pull of the sun on the earth's surface including the sea water

  4. gravitational pull of the sun and the moon on the earth's surface including the sea water
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of BOTH the sun and moon on Earth's surface, including the oceans. While the moon's influence is stronger (about twice as much as the sun's) due to its proximity, both celestial bodies contribute to tidal forces. The gravitational pull creates tidal bulges on both sides of Earth, leading to high and low tides. The sun's gravitational pull definitely affects seawater, not just land.

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