Coast Guard Exams
Question 1976Navigation General70% to pass

When the moon is new or full, which type of tides occur?

AI Explanation
The correct answer is C) Spring. When the moon is new or full, the gravitational pull of the sun and moon are aligned, resulting in the highest high tides (spring tides) and the lowest low tides. This occurs because the combined gravitational forces of the sun and moon are at their greatest, creating a larger tidal range compared to when the moon is in its first or last quarter (neap tides). The other options are incorrect because: A) Neap tides occur when the sun and moon are at right angles, reducing the tidal range; B) Apogean tides are not directly related to the new or full moon phase; and D) Diurnal tides refer to a daily pattern of one high and one low tide, not the specific type of tide.

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