Why do both the sun and the moon exert a greater gravitational force on one side of the eath than on the other?
2006-10-10 10:20:39 · 4 answers · asked by Gordito 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
They don't. The gravitational force experienced by any mass depends only on its mass, the other masses, and the distances between them. See the reference for how the sun and moon affect tides on earth, but we don't think that's what you're asking.
2006-10-10 12:32:02 · answer #1 · answered by Frank N 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because the effect of gravity is proportional to the distance between the two objects. At any one time, one side of the earth is closer to the Sun or the Moon, so there is a greater gravitational pull.
2006-10-10 10:33:28 · answer #2 · answered by David C 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
they do exert a gravitational force to the entire planet. The earth's gravitational force is much, much larger then the moor or the sun exerts on us.
2006-10-10 10:31:41 · answer #3 · answered by Take it from Toby 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't think they do unless you are asking about if the combined pull is stronger when they are together and the individual gravity forces can be added instead of in opposition where the combined pull must be the difference between the individual gravity forces.
Sorry, I misunderstood your question. Trust Davids answer instead.
2006-10-10 10:34:06 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋