Tides Vs Waves

Tides are the regular rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the moon and the sun, combined with the rotation of the Earth. This phenomenon leads to variations in ocean levels that occur in a predictable pattern, typically every 12 hours and 25 minutes, resulting in two high tides and two low tides each day. Tides can significantly influence coastal ecosystems and human activities, including navigation, fishing, and beach access.

Waves are the surface oscillations of water that are generated primarily by wind blowing across the sea's surface. As wind energy transfers to the water, it creates ripples that can grow into larger waves, depending on factors such as wind speed, duration, and the distance over which the wind blows (fetch). Waves play a crucial role in shaping coastlines, affecting marine life, and influencing weather patterns, as they transport energy across vast distances in the ocean.