Tides

Question 1

Definition: Tide

Answer 1

The tide is the rise and fall of ocean water caused by differences in how much the moon’s gravity pulls on different parts of Earth.

Question 2

Describe how the moon causes tides.

Answer 2

High tides occur on the side of the Earth closest to the moon due to the
moon’s gravity pulling on the water.

Earth is farthest from the moon because the moon’s gravity pulls on the Earth more strongly than it pulls on the water leaving it behind.

Question 3

Definition: Spring Tide

Answer 3

When the Moon, Earth, and Sun are in line (a new moon or a full moon)

Question 4

Definition: Neap Tides

Answer 4

When the moon is at right angles to the earth and sun (during the moon’s 1st and 3rd quarter),

Question 5

Describe the difference between a spring tide and a neap tide

Answer 5

A spring tide is in line with the Sun, Moon, and Earth whereas a neap tide is at right angles to the earth and Sun

Question 6

Explain why a spring tide is higher than a neap tide

Answer 6

A spring tide is a combination of forces that produces a tide with the greatest difference between low and high tide, whereas a neap tide produces a tide with the least difference between low and high tide