Question 1990Navigation General

The correct answer is C) Moon is in its first quarter and third quarter phases. Neap tides occur when the Moon is in its first or third quarter phases, meaning the Moon and Sun are at right angles to each other relative to the Earth. This results in the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun partially canceling each other out, leading to smaller tidal ranges known as neap tides. The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the conditions that lead to neap tides. Options A and D are incorrect as they refer to the Moon and Sun being in alignment, which would produce spring tides rather than neap tides. Option B is incorrect as the Moon and Sun being on opposite sides of the Earth would also produce spring tides.