The effect of tidal forces caused by Triton on Neptune as it moves in its retrograde orbit will lead to Triton
A) spiraling outward from Neptune with an eventual escape.
B) spiraling in toward Neptune to eventual destruction by differential tidal forces on the moon.
C) being captured by Pluto when this dwarf planet next passes inside the orbit of Neptune.
D) gradually moving from its elliptical orbit toward a perfectly circular orbit.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Triton's retrograde orbit around Neptune results in tidal forces that cause it to lose energy and spiral in toward Neptune. Over time, this will lead to its eventual destruction by Neptune's differential tidal forces.

The Effect of Tidal Forces Caused by Triton on Neptune