Consider the following statements with respect to ‘tides’: 1. The ti

Consider the following statements with respect to ‘tides’:

  • 1. The tidal bulges on wide continental shelves have greater height.
  • 2. When tides are channeled between islands, they are called tidal currents.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CBI DSP LDCE – 2023
Both statements accurately describe phenomena related to tides: tidal bulges are amplified on wide continental shelves, and channeled tidal flows are called tidal currents.
Statement 1 is correct: As a tidal wave moves from the deep ocean onto a wide, shallow continental shelf, the decrease in water depth causes the wave height (and thus the tidal range) to increase due to a phenomenon called shoaling. The wide expanse of the shelf allows the tidal bulge to build up laterally. Statement 2 is correct: Tidal currents are the horizontal movement of water associated with the rise and fall of the tide. When these tidal flows are forced through narrow passages, such as between islands or in channels, their speed and strength increase, hence they are referred to as tidal currents, often becoming quite strong in these constricted areas.
The maximum height of tides is influenced by factors like the shape of the coastline, the depth of the water, and the configuration of bays and estuaries. Tidal currents are a significant force in coastal environments, affecting sedimentation, erosion, and navigation.