Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science Practice test

What are tides primarily influenced by?

1. Ocean currents

2. The earth's rotation

3. Gravitational interactions with the moon

4. Solar winds

The correct answer is: Gravitational interactions with the moon

Tides are primarily influenced by gravitational interactions with the moon due to the gravitational pull it exerts on the Earth's oceans. The gravitational force of the moon causes water to bulge out in the direction of the moon, creating a high tide. There is also a corresponding low tide on the opposite side of the Earth due to the inertia of the water. While the sun also plays a role in influencing tides, the effect of the moon is significantly stronger because it is closer to Earth. Ocean currents are primarily driven by wind patterns and the Earth's rotation, and while they do interact with tide patterns, they are not the primary force behind them. The Earth's rotation does contribute to the timing of high and low tides, but it is the gravitational pull from the moon that creates the actual tides. Solar winds, which are streams of charged particles released from the sun, have little to no effect on tides. Thus, the correct answer reflects the dominant factor in tidal movements.