Gravity and Ocean Tides

Front

What is gravity?

Back

The force that influences the ocean tides, keeps the moon orbiting the Earth, and keeps Earth orbiting the sun.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

NGSS.MS-PS2-4

Front

How many low and high tides occur in a 24-hour period?

Back

2 low and 2 high tides.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

Front

What causes tides?

Back

Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun on the Earth's ocean waters.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What factors play a role in producing ocean tides?

Back

Gravity, moon phases, and the alignment of Earth, Sun, and Moon.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

NGSS.MS-PS2-4

Front

What type of gravitational pull does the moon exert on Earth's ocean waters?

Back

Strong gravitational pull.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is the relationship between gravity and tides?

Back

Gravity is the force that causes the ocean tides by pulling water towards the moon and sun.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-4

Front

What are spring tides?

Back

Spring tides are higher high tides and lower low tides that occur when the Earth, moon, and sun are aligned.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What are neap tides?

Back

Neap tides are lower high tides and higher low tides that occur when the moon is at a right angle to the Earth-sun line.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

How does the moon's phase affect tides?

Back

The moon's phase affects the strength and timing of tides, with full and new moons causing higher tides.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is the effect of the sun on ocean tides?

Back

The sun's gravitational pull also affects tides, but to a lesser extent than the moon.