The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Tides are the periodic rise and fall of ocean levels caused by the combined gravitational attraction of the Moon and the Sun, along with the Earth's rotation. The magnitude of tidal ranges fluctuates based on the varying distances between the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun during their respective orbits.
Statement 1 is Incorrect:
The position when the Moon is closest to the Earth is called perigee. During perigee, the Moon's gravitational pull is strongest, resulting in unusually high high tides and low low tides. Consequently, the tidal ranges are greater than normal, not lower. Conversely, when the Moon is farthest from the Earth (apogee), the tidal ranges are less than average.
Statement 2 is Correct:
The position when the Earth is farthest from the Sun is called aphelion (occurring around July 4th). Due to the increased distance, the gravitational pull of the Sun is weaker. This results in tidal ranges that are much less than average. In contrast, during perihelion (around January 3rd), when the Earth is closest to the Sun, the tidal ranges are greater than average.
Statement 3 is Correct:
The vertical movement of tides creates horizontal water movement. The period between high tide and low tide, during which the water level is falling or receding, is technically termed the ebb. The period when the water level is rising is called the flow or flood.
Key Takeaway:
Perigee (Moon closest) and Perihelion (Earth closest to Sun) result in greater tidal ranges due to stronger gravitational pull. Apogee (Moon farthest) and Aphelion (Earth farthest from Sun) result in reduced tidal ranges. Ebb is the receding phase of the tide.