Phases of the Moon

Front

What is a waxing crescent moon?

Back

A waxing crescent moon is the phase of the moon where less than half of the moon is illuminated and is increasing in brightness.

Front

What is a waning gibbous moon?

Back

A waning gibbous moon is the phase of the moon where more than half of the moon is illuminated and is decreasing in brightness.

Front

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

Back

Waxing means growing or increasing in illumination.

Front

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

Back

Waning means decreasing in illumination.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is the phase of the moon when it is completely illuminated as seen from Earth.

Front

What is a new moon?

Back

A new moon is the phase of the moon when it is not visible from Earth because the illuminated side is facing away.

Front

What is the difference between a gibbous moon and a crescent moon?

Back

A gibbous moon shows more than half of the bright side of the moon, while a crescent moon shows less than half.

Front

What is the order of the moon phases starting from the new moon?

Back

New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, Waning Crescent.

Front

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

Back

It takes about 29.5 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 affect the gravitational pull on Earth, which influences the tides.