The tidal bulge on the side of the Earth facing the tide-raising body is caused by the difference between the tidal force at the surface of the Earth and the tidal force at the Earth's center.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tidal bulge is caused by the gravitational pull of the tide-raising body (like the Moon) being stronger on the side of the Earth facing it compared to the center, creating a difference in forces that results in the bulge.

The Tidal Bulge on the Side of the Earth Facing