Patterns of the Solar System

Front

What does it mean when the Moon is in its waxing phases?

Back

It means that more and more of the Moon is visible each night.

Front

What does it mean when the Moon is in its waning phases?

Back

It means that less and less of the Moon is visible each night.

Front

What is the winter solstice?

Back

The day with the least sunlight in the year.

Front

What is the center of our solar system?

Back

The Sun.

Front

What season is it in the northern hemisphere during the winter solstice?

Back

Winter.

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The different appearances of the Moon as seen from Earth, including new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, last quarter, and waning crescent.

Front

What causes the seasons on Earth?

Back

The tilt of Earth's axis and its orbit around the Sun.

Front

What is an equinox?

Back

A day when day and night are of approximately equal length, occurring in spring and fall.

Front

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon.

Front

What is the significance of the summer solstice?

Back

It is the day with the most sunlight in the year.