Question

Which phrases apply to the formation of tides? Check all that apply.

occur as Earth rotates through areas where ocean water bulges
are higher when wind speed increases
form due to the gravitational pull of the moon and Sun
decrease at night and increase during the day
occur on a predictable schedule

Answer 1

Correct:
- occur as Earth rotates through areas where ocean water bulges — True. The Moon’s and Sun’s gravity create bulges in the ocean; as Earth rotates, locations pass through those bulges and experience high and low tides.
- form due to the gravitational pull of the moon and Sun — True. Astronomical tides are driven mainly by the Moon’s gravity and, to a lesser extent, the Sun’s.
- occur on a predictable schedule — True. Tides follow regular astronomic cycles (lunar day, phases, etc.) and can be predicted well in advance.

Not correct for tide formation:
- are higher when wind speed increases — Not generally. Wind can raise local water levels (storm surge or setup) and change local conditions, but wind does not form the astronomical tides.
- decrease at night and increase during the day — Not true. Tides don’t systematically depend on day vs. night; their timing follows the Moon’s position (approximately a 24 h 50 min cycle), so highs and lows can occur both day and night.