Seasons, Phases, Auroras, and Tides

Front

What is the waxing gibbous phase of the moon?

Back

The waxing gibbous phase occurs when more than half of the moon is illuminated and is increasing in brightness, leading up to a full moon.

Front

What does 'waxing' mean in relation to the moon phases?

Back

'Waxing' refers to the phases of the moon where it appears to be getting larger, from new moon to full moon.

Front

What is the summer solstice?

Back

The summer solstice is the longest day of the year, occurring around June 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, when the sun is at its highest point.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon occurs when the entire face of the moon is illuminated by the sun, making it fully visible from Earth.

Front

What causes the changing of the seasons on Earth?

Back

The changing of the seasons is caused by the tilt of the Earth's axis, which affects the angle and intensity of sunlight received at different times of the year.

Front

What is the difference between a waning and waxing moon?

Back

A waning moon appears to be getting smaller, while a waxing moon appears to be getting larger.

Front

What is the significance of the winter solstice?

Back

The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, occurring around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the start of winter.

Front

What are auroras?

Back

Auroras are natural light displays in the sky, typically seen in polar regions, caused by the interaction of solar wind with the Earth's magnetic field.

Front

What is a new moon?

Back

A new moon occurs when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the sun, making it invisible from Earth.

Front

What is the last quarter moon phase?

Back

The last quarter moon phase occurs when half of the moon is illuminated and is decreasing in brightness, following the full moon.