Correct Option
Statement (1) is incorrect. Gulfs or bays that exhibit a wide opening towards the ocean and gradually narrow towards their interior experience significantly higher tidal ranges. This phenomenon is attributed to the funnelling effect, where the incoming tidal wave is progressively compressed into a smaller area, leading to an amplification of its height. Conversely, a gulf with a narrow front and wider rear would not typically experience exceptionally high tides due to the lack of this funnelling mechanism. A prominent example of high tides due to funnelling is the Bay of Fundy in Canada.
Incorrect Options
Statement (2) is correct. When a gulf or bay is connected to the open sea through a narrow channel, the constricted passage causes the water to flow with increased velocity during the rising and falling tides. This results in strong tidal currents as large volumes of water are forced through a limited opening.
Statement (3) is correct. A tidal bore is a strong tidal wave that propagates up a river or a narrow bay. It forms when a rapidly rising tide enters a shallow, narrow, and often converging estuary, causing the leading edge of the tide to form a visible wave or series of waves that travel upstream against the river's current.
Statement (4) is correct. The Hooghly River, on which Kolkata Port is situated, is a tidal river. The tidal fluctuations are critical for the port's operations, as they allow for sufficient water depth for large vessels to navigate the river channel, especially during high tide. This tidal assistance is essential for maintaining Kolkata's viability as a major riverine port.