Sir Isaac Newton provided the first detailed explanation of tidal action when he introduced the theory of gravitation in 1687. He proposed that objects exert force upon each other, keeping them together. This force, known as gravity, keeps the planets in orbit around the sun and the moon around the earth. The gravitational force of the sun and moon is strong enough to move the water on earth. Newton described a second effect which is necessary for explaining why there are tidal changes twice a day.
Centrifugal effects tend to throw objects away from spinning bodies.
We experience a pull toward the moon and a second pull away from the moon on the opposite side of earth. As a result, Cape Cod has two high and low tides daily. The gravitational pull of the sun and moon combine to create changes in the difference between high and low tides. Before our return to Cleveland, students visit Plimouth Plantation. Plimoth Plantation brings to life the Plimouth of 1627.