Are ocean tides considered to be most affected by the gravitational pull from the Sun, the Moon, or both?
Ocean tides are primarily affected by the gravitational pull of both the Moon and the Sun. However, the Moon is the main contributor to tidal forces, due to its proximity to Earth. The gravitational force exerted by the Moon on Earth's oceans generates two bulges of water - one on the side facing the Moon and another on the opposite side. These are known as tidal bulges. As the Earth rotates, different parts of the planet experience different levels of gravitational pull, causing the tides to change throughout the day.
The Sun also exerts a gravitational force on Earth's oceans, although it is weaker compared to the Moon's influence. The Sun's gravitational pull contributes to tidal variations known as solar tides. Solar tides are typically about half the amplitude of lunar tides, but they can be significant when the Sun, Moon, and Earth align during certain times of the year.
To determine the precise influence of each celestial body on ocean tides, tidal predictions are made using mathematical models that take into account the positions of the Moon, the Sun, and other factors such as the shape of the ocean basins and local geography. These models, along with historical data and observations, are used to create tide tables and predict the timing and height of tides at different locations.
In summary, while ocean tides are influenced by both the Moon and the Sun, the Moon has the strongest effect due to its proximity to Earth.