7.04 Tides and Water Power

Tides

Water level changes caused by gravitational interactions.

Newton's Law of Gravitation

Explains gravity's dependence on mass and distance.

Tidal Bulges

Higher water levels created by gravitational pull.

High Tide

Occurs when tidal wave crest reaches shore.

Low Tide

Occurs when tidal wave trough reaches shore.

Tidal Waves

Long waves moving from ocean to coastlines.

Daily Tides

Tides cycle approximately every 12 hours.

Tidal Cycle

24-hour, 50-minute cycle of high and low tides.

Tidal Range

Difference in height between high and low tides.

Spring Tides

Extra high and low tides during alignment of sun, moon, Earth.

Neap Tides

Moderate tides when sun and moon are perpendicular.

Tidal Resonance

Channel depth affects tide levels and wave sizes.

Moon's Tide-Generating Force

Dominant force influencing ocean tides.

Solar Tide

Tides generated by the sun's gravitational pull.

Lunar Tides

Tides created by the moon's gravitational pull.

Tidal Power

Energy harnessed from the motion of tides.

Ideal Tidal Range

Greater than 5 meters for effective power generation.

Bay of Fundy

Location with daily tidal changes up to 60 feet.

Annapolis Royal Generating Station

One of three tidal power plants in operation.

Marine Energy

Energy derived from ocean waves and currents.

Kinetic Energy Generation

Energy produced from moving water in turbines.

Renewable Resources

Resources replenished at the same rate as used.

Nonrenewable Resources

Limited resources, commonly used for electricity today.

Ocean Energy Challenges

Issues include cost, location, and environmental impact.

Mixed Semidurnal Tides

Tides between high and low tide