1. What is Tidal Range?

Tidal range is the vertical difference between the high tide and the succeeding low tide. It is a crucial measurement in oceanography and coastal engineering, indicating the magnitude of tide-induced water level changes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple tidal range formula:

Where:

• \( High\ Tide \) — The maximum water level reached during high tide (meters)
• \( Low\ Tide \) — The minimum water level reached during low tide (meters)

Explanation: This straightforward calculation provides the vertical difference between the highest and lowest water levels during a tidal cycle.

3. Importance of Tidal Range Calculation

Details: Tidal range is essential for navigation, coastal zone management, tidal energy potential assessment, and understanding coastal ecosystems. It helps predict flooding risks and plan marine operations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both high tide and low tide values in meters. Ensure high tide value is greater than or equal to low tide value for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a large tidal range?
A: Tidal ranges above 4 meters are generally considered large, while those below 2 meters are considered micro-tidal.

Q2: Where are the world's largest tidal ranges found?
A: The Bay of Fundy in Canada has the world's largest tidal range, exceeding 16 meters in some areas.

Q3: How does tidal range affect marine life?
A: Species in intertidal zones have adapted to survive the regular exposure to air and changes in temperature and salinity caused by tidal fluctuations.

Q4: Can tidal range change over time?
A: Yes, tidal ranges can be affected by sea level rise, coastal engineering projects, and changes in coastal morphology.

Q5: How is tidal range measured in practice?
A: Tide gauges, satellite altimetry, and GPS-equipped buoys are commonly used to measure tidal levels and calculate range.