Sun-Earth-Moon System Review

Front

What is the waxing crescent moon phase?

Back

The waxing crescent is the phase of the moon that occurs after the new moon and before the first quarter, where a small sliver of the moon is illuminated.

Front

What moon phase comes before the waxing crescent?

Back

The New Moon is the phase that comes before the waxing crescent.

Front

Why does the moon appear to change shape over the month?

Back

The moon appears to change shape because it orbits the Earth, altering the angle of sunlight that illuminates its surface.

Front

During which moon phase does a solar eclipse occur?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs during the New Moon phase.

Front

How does the moon's gravitational pull affect Earth's tides?

Back

The moon's gravitational pull causes high tides on the side of Earth facing the moon and on the opposite side.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is the phase when the entire face of the moon is illuminated by the sun, occurring approximately once a month.

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 the Earth.

Front

What is a waning gibbous moon?

Back

A waning gibbous moon is the phase after a full moon when more than half of the moon is illuminated but decreasing.

Front

What is a waxing gibbous moon?

Back

A waxing gibbous moon is the phase after the first quarter when more than half of the moon is illuminated and increasing.

Front

What is the significance of the first quarter moon?

Back

The first quarter moon is when half of the moon is illuminated and is a key point in the lunar cycle.