A tidal engineer calculates the net energy potential from a high tide of 8 meters and low tide of 2 meters in the Bay of Fundy, assuming energy is proportional to the square of the tide height. If energy at full tide is 1600 units, how much is generated at low tide?

Tue, 05 May 2026 07:05:51 +0000

**A tidal engineer calculates the net energy potential from a high tide of 8 meters and low tide of 2 meters in the Bay of Fundy, assuming energy is proportional to the square of the tide height. If energy at full tide is 1600 units, how much is generated at low tide? People worldwide are increasingly exploring how natural tidal forces can power clean energy systems, and the Bay of Fundy stands out as a prime example. Its dramatic tides—reaching up to 8 meters at high tide and dropping to about 2 meters at low tide—create a powerful energy cycle. Engineers model this dynamic by analyzing energy potential relative to peak levels, using mathematical relationships rooted in physics. **Why This Calculation Matters Across the US**
In the United States, interest in tidal energy is rising as communities seek predictable, renewable power sources. The Bay of Fundy’s massive tidal range offers a real-world blueprint, inspiring engineers and policymakers studying coastal energy conversion. With growing focus on resilient energy infrastructure, understanding how tides translate to energy output helps inform investment and innovation. **How Engineers Calculate Tidal Energy Output**
Tidal energy potential traditionally follows an proportional model based on tide height squared. Since energy derives from water movement driven by elevation differences, engineers use the formula:
Energy ∝ (Tide Height)²
With energy at full tide measured at 1600 units, we compute low-tide energy by comparing squares:
Low tide height = 2 meters
Low tide energy = 1600 × (2² / 8²) = 1600 × (4 / 64) = 1600 × 0.0625 = 100 units