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Multiple Choice
When do the greatest tidal ranges occur according to Newton's Law of Gravity?
A
When the Earth is closest to the Sun
B
During the first and third quarter moon phases
C
When the Earth is farthest from the Sun
D
During the new moon and full moon phases
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that tidal ranges are influenced by the gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and the Sun on the Earth.
Recall that according to Newton's Law of Gravity, the gravitational force between two masses is given by: , where is the gravitational constant, and are the masses, and is the distance between the centers of the two masses.
Recognize that the greatest tidal ranges, known as spring tides, occur when the gravitational forces of the Moon and the Sun align, either in the same direction or opposite directions.
Identify that this alignment happens during the new moon and full moon phases, when the Earth, Moon, and Sun are approximately in a straight line, maximizing the combined gravitational pull on Earth's oceans.
Conclude that during these phases, the gravitational forces are additive, leading to higher high tides and lower low tides, thus creating the greatest tidal ranges.