When the sun and the moon align directly, what is this phenomenon called regarding tides?

The phenomenon described occurs when the sun and the moon are aligned directly, which leads to the highest tides, known as spring tides. This alignment causes the gravitational forces from both the sun and the moon to work together, pulling the water in the oceans more strongly than at other times. As a result, there is a significant increase in the height of the tides.

Spring tides happen two times a month, during the full moon and the new moon phases, when the sun, moon, and Earth are in a straight line. This situation contrasts with neap tides, which occur when the sun and moon are at right angles to each other, resulting in lower tides.

Understanding this concept is important in recognizing how celestial alignments affect tidal patterns and the natural rhythms of marine ecosystems.