What is the average tidal amplitude in the ocean?

The average tidal amplitude in the ocean is typically around 0.6 meters. This measurement reflects the general range of tidal heights experienced in many coastal areas due to the gravitational pull of the moon and sun, along with other factors such as the shape of the coastline and local bathymetry. Tidal amplitudes can vary significantly depending on geographical locations and the specific dynamics of the ocean at that point, but 0.6 meters serves as a commonly accepted average across various regions.

In places with smaller tidal ranges, such as areas where the coast is more enclosed or where the effects of the moon's gravitational pull are mitigated, tidal amplitudes can be lower, which disqualifies options that present smaller numbers. Conversely, certain locations may exhibit much larger tidal ranges, but those instances are exceptions rather than the general rule, making the larger figures less representative of the average situation. Thus, the 0.6-meter average provides a meaningful benchmark for understanding tidal behavior in the ocean as a whole.