1. What is a Tidal Range Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the tidal range based on the difference between high tide and low tide water levels.

Purpose: It helps marine professionals, coastal engineers, and researchers understand water level variations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( TR \) — Tidal range (meters)
• \( H_h \) — High tide height (meters)
• \( H_l \) — Low tide height (meters)

Explanation: The tidal range is simply the vertical difference between the highest and lowest water levels during a tidal cycle.

3. Importance of Tidal Range Calculation

Details: Tidal range affects navigation, coastal engineering, marine ecosystems, and tidal energy potential.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the high tide and low tide heights in meters. Both values must be ≥ 0, and high tide must be ≥ low tide.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a large tidal range?
A: Ranges over 4 meters are considered large. The Bay of Fundy has the world's largest tidal range of about 16 meters.

Q2: How often do tides cycle?
A: Most coastal areas experience two high tides and two low tides each day (semidiurnal tide).

Q3: What causes variations in tidal range?
A: Factors include lunar phase, coastal geography, weather patterns, and ocean currents.

Q4: How is tidal range measured in practice?
A: Using tide gauges, satellite altimetry, or reference to tidal prediction tables.

Q5: Why is tidal range important for coastal communities?
A: It affects flood risk, harbor operations, coastal erosion, and intertidal ecosystems.