Moon Phases, Tides & Eclipses

Front

What causes the different phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are caused by the changing angles of sunlight hitting the Moon as it orbits Earth.

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.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

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 tilt of the Moon's orbit?

Back

The tilt of the Moon's orbit is approximately 5 degrees relative to Earth's orbit.

Front

What is the significance of the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth?

Back

The alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth is necessary for solar and lunar eclipses to occur.

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.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is the phase when the entire illuminated side of the Moon is facing Earth.

Front

What is the first quarter moon?

Back

The first quarter moon is the phase when half of the Moon's surface is illuminated and visible from Earth.

Front

What is the last quarter moon?

Back

The last quarter moon is the phase when the opposite half of the Moon's surface is illuminated compared to the first quarter.

Front

What are tides?

Back

Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and the Sun.