Phases of the Moon

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are the different shapes of the Moon as seen from Earth, caused by the Moon's position relative to the Earth and the Sun.

Front

How many phases does the Moon have?

Back

The Moon has 8 phases.

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

A Full Moon is the phase when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, making it appear round and bright.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

A New Moon is the phase when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, and its illuminated side is facing away from Earth, making it invisible.

Front

What does 'waning' mean in relation to the Moon?

Back

Waning refers to the period when the visible surface of the Moon is decreasing in illumination.

Front

What does 'waxing' mean in relation to the Moon?

Back

Waxing refers to the period when the visible surface of the Moon is increasing in illumination.

Front

What is a Crescent Moon?

Back

A Crescent Moon is a phase where less than half of the Moon is illuminated, appearing as a thin sliver.

Front

What is a Gibbous Moon?

Back

A Gibbous Moon is a phase where more than half of the Moon is illuminated but not yet full.

Front

What is the difference between a Waning Gibbous and a Waxing Gibbous?

Back

A Waning Gibbous is decreasing in illumination after a Full Moon, while a Waxing Gibbous is increasing in illumination before a Full Moon.

Front

What does it mean for the Earth and Moon to revolve around the Sun?

Back

To revolve means to move in a circular or elliptical path around a central point, in this case, the Sun.