Word of the Day

The Science of Tides—The Moon’s Pull on Earth

The Moon exerts a gravitational pull on the Earth, and this force is strongest on the side of Earth closest to the Moon and weakest on the opposite side.  This difference in gravitational pull creates tidal bulges in Earth's oceans on both the near and far sides.

As the Earth rotates, these bulges move, causing the daily rise and fall of tides we experience. The Moon's gravity also has a subtle braking effect on Earth's rotation, very slowly lengthening our days over vast periods of time.

Tides are the rise and fall of ocean water, caused mainly by the gravitational pull of the moon. As the Earth rotates, the moon’s gravity pulls on the oceans, creating bulges of water that result in high and low tides.

This force is so strong that it even slightly deforms the Earth itself! The sun also plays a role—during full moons and new moons, when the sun and moon align, we experience extra-high “spring tides”.

Tides aren’t just a natural spectacle—they’re essential for marine life, navigation, and even renewable energy!

Word of the Day

Word: Tranquil

Definition: Calm, peaceful, and quiet.

Example Sentence: The early morning air in the valley was wonderfully tranquil.