Lunar Cycle

Front

What is the lunar cycle?

Back

The lunar cycle is the sequence of phases the Moon goes through as it orbits the Earth, taking approximately 28.5 days to complete.

Front

What are the main phases of the lunar cycle?

Back

The main phases are New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, and Third Quarter.

Front

What causes the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are caused by the relative positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, which affect how much of the Moon's surface is illuminated by sunlight.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

A New Moon occurs when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from Earth.

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

A Full Moon occurs when the Earth is between the Moon and the Sun, allowing the entire face of the Moon to be illuminated.

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to complete one full cycle of phases?

Back

It takes approximately 28.5 days for the Moon to complete one full cycle of phases.

Front

What is the significance of the Moon's phases in relation to tides?

Back

The Moon's phases influence the gravitational pull on Earth's oceans, affecting tidal patterns.

Front

What is the First Quarter Moon?

Back

The First Quarter Moon occurs about a week after the New Moon, when half of the Moon's surface is illuminated.

Front

What is the Third Quarter Moon?

Back

The Third Quarter Moon occurs about three weeks after the New Moon, when the opposite half of the Moon's surface is illuminated compared to the First Quarter.

Front

What is the role of sunlight in the lunar cycle?

Back

Sunlight illuminates the Moon, allowing us to see its phases from Earth.