Which of the following types of tides occurs during the first and third quarters of the moon, when the gravitational pull of the Sun and the Moon are perpendicular to each other, producing moderate or minimum tidal ranges?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Neap tides occur during the first and third quarters of the lunar cycle when the gravitational pulls of the Sun and the Moon act on the Earth at right angles to each other, partially neutralizing their combined force and producing lower tidal ranges. Conversely, spring tides occur during new moons and full moons when the celestial bodies align, producing maximum tidal ranges.