Spring and Neap Tides

Ocean Tides

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The rising and falling of the ocean’s surface

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Caused by the gravitational attraction of the Sun
and Moon on the oceans of Earth

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Important types of tides – high tide, low tide, spring
tide, and neap tide

High and Low Tide

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There are 2 high tides and 2 low tides each day (24
hours)

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High Tide - occurs when ocean water is at its highest
level during the day

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Low Tide - occurs when ocean water is at its lowest
level during the day

High Tide

Low Tide

Phases of the Moon

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Spring tides occur during certain moon phases.

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Full Moon - the Earth is between the Sun and moon.

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New Moon - the moon is between Earth and the Sun.

Spring Tide

Phases of the Moon

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Neap tides occur during certain moon phases.

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1st Quarter Moon - the moon is at a 90 degree angle to
the Earth.

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3rd Quarter Moon - the moon is at a 90 degree angle to
the Earth.

Spring Tide

Spring Tide

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A tide in which the difference between high and low
tide is the greatest

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Occurs during a New Moon and Full Moon

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Remember “Spring – Straight” - the Sun, Earth, and
Moon form a straight line

Spring Tide

Neap Tide

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The least amount of difference between high and low
tides

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Occurs during a 1stQuarter and 3rdQuarter phase

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Remember “Neap – Ninety” - the Sun, Earth, and Moon
form a 90 degree angle (right angle)

Neap Tide