Moon Phases, Eclipses & Tides

Front

What is a Spring Tide?

Back

A Spring Tide is a type of tide that occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are in perfect alignment, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides.

Front

What is a Neap Tide?

Back

A Neap Tide is a type of tide that occurs when the Sun and Moon are at a 90-degree angle relative to the Earth, resulting in lower high tides and higher low tides.

Front

What causes Solar Eclipses?

Back

A Solar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light either partially or completely.

Front

What causes Lunar Eclipses?

Back

A Lunar Eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to fall on the Moon.

Front

What is the position of the Moon during a Spring Tide?

Back

During a Spring Tide, the Moon is either new or full, aligning with the Sun and Earth.

Front

What is the position of the Moon during a Neap Tide?

Back

During a Neap Tide, the Moon is in its first or third quarter phase, creating a 90-degree angle with the Sun and Earth.

Front

How often do Spring and Neap Tides occur?

Back

Spring and Neap Tides occur approximately every two weeks, with Spring Tides occurring during the new and full moons, and Neap Tides during the first and third quarters.

Front

What is the effect of the Moon's gravity on Earth's tides?

Back

The Moon's gravity pulls on Earth's water, causing the water to bulge out in the direction of the Moon, creating high tides.

Front

What is the role of the Sun in tidal changes?

Back

The Sun's gravity also affects tides, but its influence is less than that of the Moon. When the Sun, Moon, and Earth align, the tidal effect is amplified.

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 the Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the Moon.