Understanding Spring Tides

Spring tides are a natural phenomenon, not related to the season of spring. They occur twice each lunar month when the Sun, Moon, and Earth align, leading to higher high tides and lower low tides.

The term 'spring' in spring tides originates from the concept of 'springing forth'. It refers to the tide's strong surge, not the spring season, as commonly misconceived.

Spring tides are when tidal forces are strongest, opposite of neap tides. Neap tides occur when the gravitational forces of the Moon and the Sun form a right angle relative to Earth.

Tides are influenced by the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun. During spring tides, their combined forces create more extreme water levels due to their alignment.

Spring tides align with the full moon and new moon phases. These are the times when the Sun, Earth, and Moon form a straight line, known as 'syzygy'.

Spring tides can dramatically affect marine ecosystems, influencing feeding patterns and intertidal zones. This can lead to unique ecological events exclusive to these high-energy tides.

The range of spring tides can vary greatly around the world. The Bay of Fundy in Canada is famous for having some of the highest tidal ranges, reaching up to 16 meters.