Phases of the Moon Flashcard

Front

What causes the change in the shape of the moon?

Back

The revolution of the moon around the Earth.

Front

What is the phase of the moon when it is fully illuminated?

Back

Full moon.

Front

What is a quarter moon?

Back

A phase of the moon where half of it is illuminated as seen from Earth.

Front

Why is the moon visible from Earth?

Back

Light from the sun shines on half of the surface of the moon.

Front

What is the phase of the moon when it is not visible from Earth?

Back

New moon.

Front

How many main phases does the moon have?

Back

Four main phases: new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter.

Front

What is a crescent moon?

Back

A phase of the moon where less than half of it is illuminated.

Front

What is the term for the path the moon takes around the Earth?

Back

Orbit.

Front

What is the term for the time it takes for the moon to complete one orbit around the Earth?

Back

Lunar month, approximately 29.5 days.

Front

What is the difference between a waxing and waning moon?

Back

Waxing means the moon is getting larger; waning means it is getting smaller.