Unit 5 Earth

Front

What does a new moon look like?

Back

A new moon has no illumination; it is not visible from Earth.

Front

What is the term for the lunar month described from the stars, indicating the Moon's full orbit around Earth?

Back

Sidereal month.

Front

What phenomenon occurs when the Moon casts a shadow on Earth?

Back

Solar eclipse.

Front

Which planet has a rotational axis nearly parallel to its orbital path?

Back

Uranus.

Front

When is Earth closest to the Sun?

Back

In January.

Front

What is the phase of the Moon when it is fully illuminated?

Back

Full moon.

Front

What is the term for the time it takes for the Moon to go through all its phases?

Back

Lunar month.

Front

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon blocks the Sun's light from reaching Earth, while a lunar eclipse occurs when Earth casts a shadow on the Moon.

Front

What is the average duration of a lunar cycle?

Back

Approximately 29.5 days.

Front

What is the significance of the equinoxes in relation to Earth's orbit?

Back

Equinoxes mark the points in Earth's orbit where day and night are of approximately equal length.