Sun, Earth, and Moon Alignment and Eclipses

Front

What causes high tides on Earth?

Back

High tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun on Earth's oceans. They are greatest during the New Moon and Full Moon when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned.

Front

What is the position of the Sun during the summer solstice?

Back

During the summer solstice, the Sun is directly over the northern hemisphere, resulting in the longest day of the year.

Front

What happens during an equinox?

Back

During an equinox, the Earth's axis is not tilted toward or away from the Sun, resulting in approximately equal hours of daylight and darkness.

Front

What is the order of the solar system from smallest to largest?

Back

Planet → solar system → galaxy → universe.

Front

What is the difference between asteroids and comets?

Back

Asteroids are rocky bodies that mostly orbit between Mars and Jupiter, while comets are icy bodies that originate from the outer solar system.

Front

What effect does gravitational pull have on celestial bodies?

Back

Gravitational pull can change the orbits of celestial bodies, causing them to move closer to or farther from other objects.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light either partially or completely.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to fall on the Moon.

Front

How does the Moon's phase affect ocean tides?

Back

The Moon's phase affects ocean tides; high tides occur during the New Moon and Full Moon phases, while low tides occur during the First and Last Quarter phases.

Front

What is the role of the Sun in the solar system?

Back

The Sun is the central star of the solar system, providing light and heat that sustain life on Earth and influencing the orbits of planets.