What is the term used for the difference in height between high tide and low tide?

The term used for the difference in height between high tide and low tide is known as the tidal range. Tidal range is a critical concept in understanding how tides work, as it indicates the vertical difference between the sea level at high tide and low tide. This measurement is important for maritime navigation, as it can affect the safety and operation of vessels in tide-influenced waters.

Understanding tidal range helps mariners and boaters to plan their trips, avoiding areas that may become too shallow during low tide and allowing them to navigate safely during varying conditions. Other terms, such as tide height, refer to the specific measurement of sea level at any given tide, while mean water level represents an average sea level over a specific period. Spring tide refers to a specific type of tide that occurs when the gravitational forces of the moon and sun align, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides, but does not directly address the concept of the height difference between high and low tide.