* The Moon's Gravity: The Moon's gravitational pull is the primary driver of tides. It pulls the water on the side of the Earth facing the Moon, creating a bulge. This bulge is the high tide. A corresponding bulge occurs on the opposite side of the Earth due to inertia.
* The Sun's Influence: The Sun, although much farther away, also exerts a gravitational pull on the Earth's water. During a new moon (and full moon), the Sun and Moon are aligned. Their gravitational forces combine, resulting in a stronger pull on the Earth's water. This leads to higher than average high tides, known as spring tides.
Why not during other phases?
During other lunar phases (waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, etc.), the Sun and Moon are not aligned. Their gravitational forces are pulling in different directions, leading to a weaker combined pull on the Earth's water. This results in lower than average high tides, known as neap tides.
In summary:
* New Moon and Full Moon: Sun and Moon aligned, stronger combined gravitational pull, higher tides (spring tides).
* Other Phases: Sun and Moon not aligned, weaker combined gravitational pull, lower tides (neap tides).
