California Maritime Academy (CMA) Deck USCG Question #105 (Set 4)

Which force most strongly affects the height of tide?

Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation

Correct Answer: Option B — Moon's gravity

Tides are generated by the gravitational interaction between the Earth, Moon, and Sun. Although the Sun is massive, the Moon's proximity to Earth makes its gravitational force the dominant influence on tidal ranges, accounting for approximately two-thirds of the total tidal force exerted on the oceans.

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