Earth, Moon, and Sun

Front

What is the relationship between the Earth and the Moon?

Back

The Moon orbits around the Earth in a circular path, and this gravitational relationship causes the Moon to be in constant motion around the Earth.

Front

How does light travel?

Back

Light travels in straight lines only.

Front

What causes the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are caused by the Moon's position relative to the Earth and the Sun, which affects how much of the Moon's surface is illuminated by sunlight.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

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

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light from reaching the Earth.

Front

What is the significance of the dotted circle in diagrams of the Earth and Moon?

Back

The dotted circle represents the Moon's orbit around the Earth, indicating that the Moon is always moving in a circular path.

Front

Can the Moon ever be completely dark as seen from Earth?

Back

Yes, the Moon can appear completely dark during a new moon phase when it is positioned between the Earth and the Sun.

Front

What is the effect of the Earth's shadow on the Moon during an eclipse?

Back

During a lunar eclipse, the Earth's shadow can block sunlight from reaching the Moon, causing it to appear dark.

Front

What is the difference between a waxing and waning Moon?

Back

A waxing Moon is when the illuminated part of the Moon is increasing, while a waning Moon is when the illuminated part is decreasing.

Front

What is the term for the half of the Moon that is always facing Earth?

Back

The near side of the Moon.