Flashcard on Phases of the Moon

Front

What is a moon?

Back

A natural satellite in orbit around a planet

Front

Why can we see the Moon?

Back

It reflects light from the Sun

Front

What causes the phases of the Moon?

Back

The Moon orbiting the Earth

Front

How long is a lunar month?

Back

29.5 days

Front

What is a crescent moon?

Back

Less than half of the illuminated part of the Moon is visible

Front

What happens during the waxing phase of the Moon?

Back

The illuminated portion of the Moon increases.

Front

Waning (in the Moon's phases)

Back

The Moon appearing to shrink and get darker.

Front

What is a gibbous Moon?

Back

The illuminated part is greater than a semicircle and less than a circle.

Front

What shape does a crescent Moon have?

Back

A shape with two narrow pointed ends, less than half of a circle.

Front

What is the phase of the Moon when the entire visible surface is illuminated?

Back

Full Moon