MasteryExams
Geography • Physical GeographyMedium

Which of the following phenomena is primarily responsible for generating diurnal and semi-diurnal ocean tides on Earth?

A. Differential gravitational pull exerted by the Moon and the Sun on Earth✓ Correct Answer
B. Coriolis deflection of major gyres
C. Thermal expansion of equatorial surface waters
D. Submarine seismic activity along tectonic rifts

💡 Solution & Explanation

Ocean tides are generated primarily by the differential gravitational pull exerted by the Moon and the Sun on various regions of the Earth, modulated by planetary rotation. The moon exerts a stronger tidal force than the sun due to its much closer proximity to our planet. Spring tides occur when the gravitational vectors of both celestial bodies align during new and full moon phases.

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