Tides and Local G: Investigating the Relationship Through Long-Term Observations

In summary, in a conversation about determining the local value of G by observing tides, it is suggested that tide height may follow a normal curve with a measurable deviance and that this could be a potential topic for a paper. However, it is noted that there are many confounding variables and a very accurate pendulum clock would be needed to accurately measure tidal variation. Recommendations for further reading on tide prediction and the limitations of high precision tidal prediction are provided. It is also mentioned that the Earth's solid tide and changing ionospheric conditions may affect the accuracy of measuring tide levels.
  • #1
JeffEvarts
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It occurs to me that it might be possible to determine a local value of G by observing the tides over a long-ish period. Tide height might be distributed as a normal curve, but it might have a measurable deviance. I wouldn't expect a left/right offset of the X coordinate based on G(local) , but perhaps an asymmetry across the mean X. Seems like a likely candidate for a paper, anyway. Anyone got a pointer to a study/thesis/paper on tides-vs-local-G?

-Jeff Evarts
 
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  • #2
I do not like your chances.
Tidal changes in sea level are predicted by the synthesis of well over one hundred Fourier terms of solar and lunar terms. I believe that there are too many confounding variables, such as movement of the sand on the sea floor, wind, atmospheric pressure and ocean water temperature.

Only with a very accurate pendulum clock can you see tidal variation in the period of the pendulum. That is how you identify the best pendulum clocks.

Would you like a reference to a book on tide prediction?
 
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  • #3
Can you better describe your idea?

Get a copy of; "Manual of Harmonic Analysis and Prediction of Tides" by Paul Schureman, 1971.
From archive at: https://archive.org/details/manualofharmonic00schu

Find a copy of; "Limitations of High Precision Tidal Prediction" by B. Ducarme, and any other papers from that authors.

Don't forget that the Earth has a solid tide. The reference mark on the rock will also rise and fall as you measure the height of the sea level tide.
Because of changing ionospheric conditions, GPS has too much vertical variation to establish an accurate bench mark reference level.
 
  • #4
Baluncore, thank you kindly for your thorough, but not dissmissive replies. All technical forums need more of your ilk.

-Jeff Evarts
 

Related to Tides and Local G: Investigating the Relationship Through Long-Term Observations

1. What are tides and how are they formed?

Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun. As the Earth rotates, the moon's gravity pulls on the oceans, creating a bulge on the side of the Earth closest to the moon. This bulge creates high tide. At the same time, there is a low tide on the opposite side of the Earth due to the lack of gravitational pull. As the Earth and moon continue to rotate, the bulge and low tide areas shift, creating the rise and fall of tides.

2. How does local geography affect tides?

The local geography of a coastline can greatly influence the height and timing of tides. The shape of the coastline, depth of the water, and nearby land masses can all impact the strength of tides. For example, a narrow inlet may experience stronger tides due to the restricted flow of water, while a wide bay may have weaker tides. Additionally, the slope of the coastline can affect the speed and intensity of tides.

3. What is the relationship between tides and local geography?

The relationship between tides and local geography is complex and can vary greatly depending on the specific location. Generally, areas with a more gradual slope and larger bodies of water tend to experience lower tides, while areas with steeper slopes and smaller bodies of water may experience higher tides. The shape and orientation of the coastline also play a significant role in the strength and timing of tides.

4. Why is it important to study the relationship between tides and local geography?

Studying the relationship between tides and local geography is important for a variety of reasons. Understanding how local geography affects tides can help with predicting and managing coastal flooding, as well as determining the best locations for activities such as fishing, surfing, and boating. It can also provide valuable information for coastal development and conservation efforts.

5. How do long-term observations help in investigating the relationship between tides and local geography?

Long-term observations allow scientists to gather a large amount of data over an extended period of time. This data can then be analyzed to identify patterns and trends in the relationship between tides and local geography. By studying data from multiple locations over many years, scientists can gain a better understanding of how different factors influence tides and how these relationships may change over time.

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