The correct option is Full Moon and New Moon.
Explanation
Tides are the periodic rise and fall of sea levels caused principally by the gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and the Sun, combined with the rotation of the Earth. The range of the tide is determined by the relative positions of these three celestial bodies.
Detailed Analysis:
- Spring Tides: These occur when the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth are aligned in a straight line (a configuration known as syzygy). During this alignment, the gravitational pulls of the Sun and the Moon reinforce each other, resulting in the greatest difference between high and low water (maximum tidal range). This alignment occurs during the Full Moon and New Moon phases.
- Neap Tides: These occur when the Sun and the Moon are positioned at right angles to each other relative to the Earth (quadrature). In this position, the gravitational forces of the Sun and Moon partially counteract each other, resulting in the minimum tidal range. This occurs during the First Quarter and Third Quarter phases.
Key Takeaway: Spring tides occur twice a month during the New Moon and Full Moon when the gravitational forces of the Sun and Moon are combined, leading to higher-than-average high tides and lower-than-average low tides.