Why do ocean tides occur?
Ocean tides are regular sea-level changes produced by varying lunar and solar gravity together with Earth's rotation.
How the process forms and its main drivers
At new and full Moon the effects align for spring tides, while at quarter phases they partly oppose for neap tides. Tides are not a one-sided pull.
Evidence, applications and limits
Coastline shape, seafloor and basin resonance alter local timing and height. Wind and air pressure add non-tidal water-level changes. Local outcomes vary with climate, geology, topography and human influence, so they require long-term measurements.
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