Moon Phases, Eclipses and Tides

Front

What are the main phases of the Moon?

Back

The main phases of the Moon are New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

What is a Waxing Gibbous Moon?

Back

A Waxing Gibbous Moon is the phase of the Moon when it is more than half illuminated but not yet full, occurring between the First Quarter and Full Moon.

Front

What is a Waning Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waning Crescent Moon is the phase of the Moon when it is less than half illuminated and decreasing in illumination, occurring between the Last Quarter and New Moon.

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to complete one full cycle of phases?

Back

It takes approximately 29.5 days for the Moon to complete one full cycle of phases, known as a lunar month.

Front

What causes the different phases of the Moon?

Back

The different phases of the Moon are caused by the relative positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, which affect how much of the Moon's surface is illuminated from our perspective.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun's light.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to fall on the Moon.

Front

What is the difference between a total and partial solar eclipse?

Back

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, while a partial solar eclipse occurs when only a part of the Sun is obscured by the Moon.

Front

What is the significance of tides?

Back

Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and the Sun on the Earth's oceans.

Front

How often do tides occur?

Back

Tides typically occur twice a day, with two high tides and two low tides in a 24-hour period.