Gravitational Force of the Sun The Sun's gravity, though weaker than the Moon's, still exerts a pull on the Earth's oceans. This pull, along with the Moon's pull, contributes to the tidal bulge.

Gravitational Force of the Moon The Moon's gravity is the primary force influencing tides. The Moon's pull creates a bulge on the side of the Earth directly facing it and another bulge on the opposite side due to centrifugal force (explained below).

The centrifugal force of the Earth As the Earth rotates, different parts experience varying degrees of centrifugal force (outward force). The parts of the Earth facing away from the Moon experience a stronger centrifugal force than those directly facing the Moon. This creates a bulge on the side away from the Moon, which combines with the Moon's gravitational pull to create high tides.

The combined effect of these three forces creates the rhythmic rise and fall of ocean waters that we observe as tides.