Phases of the Moon

Front

What are the eight phases of the moon?

Back

1. New Moon 2. Waxing Crescent 3. First Quarter 4. Waxing Gibbous 5. Full Moon 6. Waning Gibbous 7. Last Quarter 8. Waning Crescent

Front

What is the phase of the moon when it is completely illuminated?

Back

Full Moon

Front

What is the phase of the moon when it is not visible from Earth?

Back

New Moon

Front

What does it mean when the moon is described as 'waxing'?

Back

The moon is increasing in illumination, moving from new moon to full moon.

Front

What does it mean when the moon is described as 'waning'?

Back

The moon is decreasing in illumination, moving from full moon to new moon.

Front

What is the term for the moon phase that occurs after a full moon?

Back

Waning Gibbous

Front

What is the term for the moon phase that occurs before a new moon?

Back

Waning Crescent

Front

How long does it take for the moon to complete all its phases?

Back

Approximately 29.5 days.

Front

What is the difference between a first quarter moon and a last quarter moon?

Back

A first quarter moon is when half of the moon is illuminated and is increasing in light, while a last quarter moon is when half of the moon is illuminated and is decreasing in light.

Front

What is the significance of the moon's phases in relation to Earth?

Back

The moon's phases are a result of its position relative to the Earth and the Sun, affecting tides and natural cycles.