Tides & Gravity: Would Earth Still Have Tides Without Moon?

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    Gravity Tides
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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores whether Earth would experience tides in the absence of the Moon, focusing on the role of the Sun in generating tidal effects. Participants consider the frequency and nature of these tides, as well as the mechanics behind them.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that Earth would still have tides due to the Sun's gravitational influence.
  • Another participant explains that there would be two tidal maxima each day, correlating with Earth's rotation.
  • A third participant expresses gratitude for the clarification provided.
  • A link to external resources on tides is shared for further reference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the Sun would cause tides on Earth, but there is no consensus on the specifics of their frequency or characteristics without the Moon.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the nature of tidal forces and their dependence on celestial bodies remain unaddressed, and the discussion does not delve into the mathematical details of tidal calculations.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in tidal mechanics, gravitational effects of celestial bodies, and the comparative analysis of tidal influences may find this discussion relevant.

The legend
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If the moon didn't exist, would the Earth still have tides?

Well, yes of course. Due to the sun.

But what stumps me is how often would those be... I thought every 6hrs...because that's the time the sun's max gravity effect is in the other quarter of the earth...
 
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Any tidal effect will have two maxima. The Earth revolves about it's axis once per day, therefore each point processing through each maxima once per day - two high tides a day.
 
oh, ok... thank you! :smile:
 
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