What term describes the tides caused by the gravitational interaction of the sun and Earth?

The term that describes the tides caused by the gravitational interaction of the sun and Earth is "Solar Tides." The sun exerts a significant gravitational force on the Earth, affecting ocean water levels and causing changes in tide heights. While the moon is the primary driver of tidal changes due to its proximity and stronger gravitational influence, the sun's gravitational pull also notably influences tidal patterns, particularly during certain phases of the lunar cycle.

Solar tides occur in conjunction with the lunar tides, but they are distinct because they are specifically related to the sun's position relative to the Earth. The interaction between these solar tides and lunar tides leads to variations in tidal ranges, which can be seen particularly during neap and spring tides. Spring tides, for instance, occur when the sun, moon, and Earth are aligned, enhancing the gravitational pull on the oceans and resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides.

In contrast, lunar tides specifically refer to the tides caused primarily by the gravitational pull of the moon. Neap tides occur during the lunar cycle when the sun and moon are at right angles, resulting in less dramatic tidal changes. Recognizing the role of the sun in tidal dynamics is essential for understanding oceanic movements and the overall behavior of tides.