Final answer:
Tides are primarily caused by the Moon's gravitational pull resulting in tidal bulges, with high and low tides occurring as Earth rotates through these bulges. The Sun also contributes, intensifying tides when aligned with the Moon and Earth, and moderating them at other times.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Earth, the Sun, and the Moon are celestial bodies that interact to influence the daily patterns of tides and the generation of tidal currents. These tidal patterns are primarily caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon, which results in two major tidal bulges on Earth.
As the Earth rotates daily, different locations on the planet move through these bulges, experiencing high and low tides.
The Sun also plays a role in the tidal forces, although its influence is about half that of the Moon. When the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned during the new moon or full moon, the highest spring tides occur. Conversely, the lowest neap tides happen when the Sun is at a 90° angle to the Moon-Earth alignment.
Additionally, the sun contributes to the tides by either amplifying them or moderating them, depending on its position relative to the Moon and Earth. Various factors, such as the shape of coastlines and ocean basins, further complicate actual ocean tide patterns.