Final answer:
A year-long tidal height record is required at a coastal location to accurately evaluate the complex factors influencing partial tides and to forecast future tides reliably, due to the impact of tidal forces, Earth's rotation, local land and seabed features, and other environmental variables.
Step-by-step explanation:
To understand the importance of the partial tides present at a coastal ocean location and to predict future tidal heights accurately, at least a year-long tidal height record is necessary. This is because the tidal behavior at any given location is influenced by a complex set of factors, including the gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun, rotation of Earth, local topography, bathymetry, ocean depth, and land masses. These factors contribute to variations in tidal patterns, making it essential to collect long-term data to discern the composite effect of these varying forces.
Short-term observations may not capture the full range of tidal influences, such as seasonal variations and the impact of weather conditions like wind. An annual cycle of data would include a variety of astronomical positions and environmental conditions, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the contributing factors to the tidal patterns. Hence, for precise tide predictions, this extensive period of observation is crucial to accommodate the natural variability and complexity of tides.