Predict what would happen to tides on Earth if the mass of the Moon suddenly doubled.Hint: Consider how the mass of the Moon affects its gravitational pull.
Question
Predict what would happen to tides on Earth if the mass of the Moon suddenly doubled.
Hint: Consider how the mass of the Moon affects its gravitational pull.
Solution
-
Understanding the Current Situation: Currently, the gravitational pull of the moon is responsible for the tides on Earth. When the moon is closest to the Earth (at its perigee), its gravitational pull is stronger, causing higher tides or "spring tides". When the moon is furthest from the Earth (at its apogee), its gravitational pull is weaker, causing lower tides or "neap tides".
-
Considering the Change: If the mass of the moon were to suddenly double, its gravitational pull on the Earth would also increase. This is due to the fact that the force of gravity between two objects is directly proportional to the product of their masses.
-
Predicting the Outcome: With a stronger gravitational pull from the moon, we would expect the tides on Earth to become more extreme. High tides would be higher, and low tides would be lower. This could lead to increased coastal flooding during high tides, especially if this change were to occur suddenly.
-
Additional Considerations: It's also worth noting that this change could have other effects on the Earth as well. For example, it could potentially affect the Earth's rotation and cause longer days and nights. However, without more specific information, it's difficult to predict exactly what these effects would be.
Similar Questions
The gravitational force causesa. Tidesb. Motion of moonc. None of themd. Both a n b
Mass of an object is 60 kg. What will be its weight when measured on the surface of the Moon?(consider acceleration due to gravity on Earth as 9.8 m/s2)
If you go to the moon, does your mass or weight change?Aboth changeBonly weightConly massDnothing changes
Using the interactive as a guide, explain why there are two high tides every day.
the earth attracts the moon with a gravitational force of 10 ki power 20 N. the moon attracts the earth with a gravitational force of
Upgrade your grade with Knowee
Get personalized homework help. Review tough concepts in more detail, or go deeper into your topic by exploring other relevant questions.