Moon Phases and tides

Front

What are the phases of the moon?

Back

The phases of the moon are the different appearances of the moon as seen from Earth, which change in a cycle due to the moon's position relative to the Earth and the Sun.

Front

How often does the moon go through all its phases?

Back

The moon goes through all its phases once a month.

Front

What is the duration of the lunar cycle?

Back

The lunar cycle lasts approximately 29.5 days.

Front

How many phases does the moon have?

Back

The moon has 8 distinct phases.

Front

What is a waxing crescent moon?

Back

A waxing crescent moon is the phase where the moon is less than half illuminated and is increasing in illumination.

Front

What is a waning gibbous moon?

Back

A waning gibbous moon is the phase where the moon is more than half illuminated but decreasing in illumination.

Front

Do we see the same side of the moon all the time?

Back

Yes, we always see the same side of the moon due to synchronous rotation.

Front

What causes tides on Earth?

Back

Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on Earth's oceans.

Front

What is a spring tide?

Back

A spring tide is a tide that occurs when the sun, moon, and Earth are aligned, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides.

Front

What is a neap tide?

Back

A neap tide is a tide that occurs when the sun and moon are at right angles relative to Earth, resulting in lower high tides and higher low tides.