What is the Difference Between Tides and Waves?

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Tides and waves are both phenomena related to the movement of water in the ocean, but they have distinct differences:

Tides:

Tides are the rise and fall of water levels in the ocean due to gravitational pulls, such as those exerted by the Moon and the Sun.
They have a significant impact on surf conditions and coastal ecosystems.
Tides occur on a slower timescale than waves.
There are different types of tides, such as diurnal tides (one high and one low water level per day), semidiurnal tides (two highs and two lows per day), and mixed tides (two highs and two lows per day, but with varying heights).

Waves:

Waves are a series of crests and troughs in the water formed due to the impact of wind or other forces.
They occur on every body of water, not just the ocean, and can be found in lakes, swimming pools, and bathtubs.
Waves have a powerful influence on local ecosystems and coastlines due to their repetitive nature.
They are distinct from tides and currents because of their shape, longevity, and predictability.

In summary, tides are the rhythmic rise and fall of sea levels due to gravitational forces, while waves are a series of crests and troughs in the water caused by external forces such as wind. Tides have a significant impact on surf conditions and coastal ecosystems, while waves influence local ecosystems and coastlines.