“The Tidal Cycle” explores the intricate relationship between the Moon, Earth, and our oceans, focusing on the science behind tides and their far-reaching impacts. It explains how the gravitational pull of the moon, combined with the Earth's rotation, creates the rhythmic rise and fall of sea levels we observe daily. Intriguingly, these tides not only shape coastlines but also govern the behavior and distribution of countless marine species within coastal ecosystems and the intertidal zone.
The book delves into tidal mechanics, starting with the fundamental principles and progressing to more complex tidal patterns, such as spring and neap tides. It further examines the ecological impacts of tides, revealing how marine organisms adapt to the ever-changing intertidal environment. It also assesses the potential of tidal energy as a renewable energy source, evaluating current technologies and their environmental considerations, offering a comprehensive look at this promising area of earth science and environmental science. It emphasizes the importance of understanding tides for both harnessing their energy and protecting coastal ecosystems from climate change.
Structured in three parts, the book begins with the basics of tidal generation, moves on to ecological consequences, and concludes with the potential of tidal energy. This approach allows readers to gradually build their understanding of tides and their multifaceted influence on our planet, highlighting their role in marine biology and oceanography.
