The Moon

How does the moon affect us, here on Earth? TIDES!!

Tides Daily changes in the level of ocean water Influenced by the moon Affected my moon’s gravity Depend on the moon’s position relative to the sun and Earth

Tides Daily changes in the level of ocean water Influenced by the moon Affected my moon’s gravity Depend on the moon’s position relative to the sun and Earth

High Tides Moon’s pull is strongest on the part of the Earth directly facing the moon and on the side of the Earth opposite the moon Water “bulges” toward the moon and on the opposite side of the Earth Water levels are higher Occur every 12 hours, alternating with low tides

High Tides

Low Tides Moon’s pull is weakest on the sides of the Earth that are not in line with the moon Water is drawn away from the area between high tides Water levels are lower Occur every 12 hours, alternating with high tides

Low Tides

How often do tides change? Tides change every 6 hours, as the Earth rotates on its axis Ex: 12am High tide 6am Low tide 12pm High tide 6pm Low tide 12am High tide, etc…

High Tide 12:00 PM 6:13 PM Low Tide

Spring Tides Occur when the sun, Earth and moon line up Have the largest daily tidal range Occur every 14 days, during the new and full moons

Neap Tides Occur when the sun, Earth, and moon form a 90* angle to each other Tides with the smallest daily tidal range Occur every 14 days, during 1st and last quarter moons

How often do tidal ranges change? Tidal ranges change every week, as the moon revolves around the Earth Ex: New moon = Spring tides (week 1) First quarter= Neap tides (week 2) Full moon = Spring tides (week 3) Last quarter = Neap tides (week 4)

Tidal Energy

Tidal Energy

Tidal Energy

Importance of Tides Tidal energy can be used to generate electricity. The tides help get edible sea animals to shore. The tides can help cool coastal areas.