SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/astro-spring-tide-alignment

When do spring tides produce the largest average tidal ranges?

Near new and full Moon, when Sun, Earth, and Moon align.

Start playing free

  1. Near new and full Moon ✔
  2. Only at the March equinox
  3. Near first and third quarter

Why: At new and full Moon, solar and lunar tidal effects reinforce one another. High tides tend to be higher and low tides lower than average.

Huh, didn't know that: Neap tides come during the first and third quarter Moon, when the Sun and Moon are at right angles to Earth.

The dad joke
Spring tides do not check the season before springing forth.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Near new and full Moon. At new and full Moon, solar and lunar tidal effects reinforce one another. High tides tend to be higher and low tides lower than average.

  1. What are spring and neap tides? oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/springtide.html
    A spring tide...refers to the 'springing forth' of the tide during new and full moon.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Astronomy & SpaceHow far into the past are you seeing the Moon?Astronomy & SpaceWhat causes the Moon's phases?Astronomy & SpaceAbout how long is one complete lunar phase cycle?

That's stuff everyone should know.