Tidal dissipation
= Tidal dissipation
<Tidal dissipation> converts <mechanical energy> associated with a time-varying <tidal deformation> into <heat>. It can reduce <orbital eccentricity>, drive <synchronous rotation>, and contribute deep planetary heating. A <circular orbit> with exact <synchronous rotation>, perpendicular spin axis and no additional forcing has a static <tidal deformation> in the body's frame and need not sustain substantial <tidal heating>.