Tides that occur when the sun, Earth, and moon align are called spring tides.

Here's why:

* Spring tides occur when the gravitational pull of the sun and moon work together, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides. This happens during new and full moon phases, when all three celestial bodies are aligned.

* Neap tides, on the other hand, occur when the sun and moon are at right angles to each other. The gravitational pull of the sun partially cancels out the moon's pull, resulting in weaker tides.

So, remember: Spring means strong tides, not the season!