What do we call the low water position that corresponds to a tidal trough?

Prepare for the Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Oceanography Test with detailed quizzes, flashcards, and explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

The term that refers to the low water position corresponding to a tidal trough is recognized as low tides. Tides are the periodic rise and fall of sea levels caused primarily by the gravitational forces exerted by the moon and the sun, along with the rotation of the Earth. During low tides, the water level in coastal areas drops to its lowest point, which is the result of the alignment and positions of the Earth, moon, and sun in relation to one another.

In contrast, high tides occur when water levels rise, reaching their maximum height, while spring tides and neap tides refer to specific tidal conditions influenced by the moon's phases. Spring tides feature the largest variations between high and low tides, occurring during full and new moons. Neap tides result in the smallest differences between high and low tides, which occur during the first and third quarters of the moon. Therefore, low tides specifically denote the troughs in tidal cycles, making it the appropriate term for the low water position.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy