The difference between high tide and low tide is a crucial measurement in coastal studies. It represents the vertical distance between the highest water level reached during high tide and the lowest water level reached during low tide over a tidal cycle. For example, if the high tide reaches 8 meters above a defined datum and the low tide recedes to 2 meters above that same datum, the difference is 6 meters.
Understanding this vertical difference is essential for various purposes, including navigation, coastal engineering, and ecological studies. Its accurate determination aids in predicting water levels for safe passage of vessels, designing coastal structures to withstand tidal forces, and comprehending the impacts on intertidal habitats. Historically, knowledge of this metric has been vital for communities reliant on marine resources and coastal trade.