WHICH SYSTEM HAS THE GREATEST TIDAL EFFECT? EARTH-SUN OR EARTH-MOON?

http://www.onegeology.org/extra/kids/earthprocesses/tides.html

To determine which system has the greater tidal effect, we need to compare the gravitational forces exerted by both the Sun and the Moon on the Earth.

First, let's consider the tidal effect caused by the Moon. The Moon is much closer to the Earth compared to the Sun, so even though its mass is smaller, it exerts a stronger gravitational force on our planet. The Moon's gravitational pull creates two tidal bulges on opposite sides of the Earth, leading to the familiar phenomenon of high and low tides.

Next, let's examine the tidal effect caused by the Sun. Although the Sun is much larger and more massive than the Moon, it is significantly farther away from the Earth. As a result, its gravitational force is weaker compared to that of the Moon. The Sun's tidal effect is about half as powerful as the Moon's effect.

In conclusion, while both the Earth-Sun and Earth-Moon systems contribute to tidal effects, the Moon's gravitational force has a greater influence due to its close proximity to the Earth. Therefore, the Earth-Moon system has the greatest tidal effect.