Why is there a tidal bulge on the far (opposite) side of Earth from the Moon?
A) The mass of the far side is smaller than that of the near side.
B) Inertia leaves a bulge behind from earlier in Earth's rotation.
C) This phenomenon has yet to be explained by a satisfying scientific theory.
D) Earth's far side "lags behind" its center.
E) Gravity can be repulsive as well as attractive.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tidal bulge on the far side of Earth is due to inertia. As the Moon's gravity pulls on the near side of Earth, the center of Earth is also pulled slightly towards the Moon, causing the far side to "lag behind" and form a bulge due to the centrifugal force.

Why Is There a Tidal Bulge on the Far (Opposite)