The Moon rotates synchronously as it orbits Earth, always keeping one side pointed toward Earth, because
A) of the effect of the magnetic field of Earth on the magnetic field of the Moon, much like the effect on a compass needle.
B) it had precisely this rate of spin, equal to its revolution period around Earth, when it was formed.
C) of frictional effects from micrometeoroids in its orbital plane, especially early in its history.
D) of the effect of the gravitational pull of Earth on the tidally induced bulge on the Moon.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The synchronous rotation of the Moon, where one side always faces Earth, is due to the gravitational pull of Earth on the Moon's tidally induced bulge. This gravitational interaction has gradually adjusted the Moon's rotation period to match its orbital period around Earth, a process known as tidal locking.

The Moon Rotates Synchronously as It Orbits Earth, Always Keeping