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Tides

A stretching force that is caused by the difference between gravitational forces on opposite sides of an object, such as a planet or moon. For example, because the Moon pulls on opposite sides of the Earth with different strengths, water on the Earth is pulled either toward or away from the Moon, resulting in the ocean tides. Elsewhere in the Solar System, the magnitude of gravitational force on Jupiter’s moon Io is greatest on the side of Io that faces Jupiter and least on the back side. The difference between the two forces compresses and stretches Io, which in turn heats up Io’s interior. As a result, Io is the most geologically active body in the solar system.

Resources

Earth

Earth February 10, 2016

Radio Programs

Moon and Saturn Plunging into a deep ocean July 14, 2022

Moon and Spica Bigger Moon, warmer Earth April 15, 2022

Bubble Trouble Low tide equals more bubbles May 23, 2021

Moon and Saturn A moon sneaks away from its planet September 25, 2020

Shorter Days The days keep getting longer July 30, 2020

Moon, Jupiter, and Spica Making the Moon face our way April 11, 2017

Featured Images

Shorter Days July 30, 2020