Talk:Tides

Two tides per day

"Tides on the Earth result from the Moon's gravity, which is just enough stronger on the near side of the earth to attract ocean water more than on the far side." But there's a high tide on the side of the Earth facing away from the Moon as well. How does this thoery explain that? Sepura 12:36, 21 February 2008 (EST)

The entire earth is pulled slightly towards the moon, with the far side of the earth being pulled least, which is why there is a tide on both sides. Water, being a fluid, reacts more than the solid portions of the earth, but tidal forces affect the entire earth. Still not wording it well, am I? Oh well, that is why I am putting this on a talk page, not on the article page <grin>.Boomcoach 12:57, 21 February 2008 (EST)

"Water, being a fluid, reacts more than the solid portions of the earth" - are you saying that water experiences a stronger pull of gravity than solid objects? Sepura 08:37, 22 February 2008 (EST)

I think he's saying that being fluid and not solid it is able to react more to the same gravitational force. 10px Fox (talk|contribs) 08:42, 22 February 2008 (EST)

Exactly, Fox, thanks. When I step in a puddle of water, it moves more in response to the force than if I step on a sidewalk. If it doesn't, I need to lose some serious weight! <grin> Boomcoach 13:04, 23 February 2008 (EST)

Here is a nice succinct explanation. Boomcoach 13:10, 23 February 2008 (EST)