Question

Discuss the significance of tides.

Answer 1

1. Influence on Fishing: Tides govern the schedule of fishermen, as they generally sail out and return in accordance with the tides for more efficient fishing.
2. Cleaning of Shorelines: Tides help to remove garbage and debris from seashores and beaches, thus contributing to the natural cleaning process.
3. Harbor Functionality: Many harbors rely on tides for water storage in tidal basins, such as London Harbour. Strong high tidal currents assist ships in entering shallow harbors like Kolkata Harbour.
4. Salt Production: Tides aid in producing salt in coastal areas by flooding low-lying pits or salt pans with seawater during high tides. Roughly 76% of common salt is produced in this way, for example in Little Rann of Kachchh, Gujarat.
5. Energy Generation: Tidal energy is a renewable and eco-friendly source of power that can be harnessed to generate electricity. Countries like the UK, Australia, France, and India have successfully used tidal power plants.