Chapter 30, Problem 3RAT

Which pulls with the greater force on the Earth’s oceans?

(a) The Sun.

(b) The Moon.

(c) Both the Sun and the Moon; they have equal force.

(d) There is no force.

To determine

The correct option for the statement “Which pulls with the greater force on the Earth’s ocean”.

Answer to Problem 3RAT

The correct option for the statement “Which pulls with the greater force on the Earth’s ocean” is option (a).

Explanation of Solution

The Sun is defined as a celestial body in the universe, and it is an element of the solar system that takes place at the centre. Newton's law of gravity defines the attraction force acts between two masses, and it varies when the gap between the objects change and also depends on the mass of both objects.

As the mass of the Sun is much larger as compared to the Earth's natural satellite moon, so the gravitational force by the Sun on Earth will be very large and it is approx 180 times as large as much the force acts by the Moon on Earth.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the correct option for the statement “Which pulls with the greater force on the Earth’s ocean” is option (a).