Exploring the Moon's Phases

What causes the moon to appear differently each night?

• The moon's surface changes.

• The Earth's shadow on the moon.

• The moon's phases due to its orbit.

• Sunlight reflecting off the Earth.

How long does it take for the moon to orbit the Earth?

• 29.5 days

• 24 hours

• 365 days

• 7 days

When can a solar eclipse occur?

• During a full moon

• At the first quarter

• When the moon is waning

• During a new moon

Why does the moon shine?

• It reflects sunlight.

• It reflects light from the Earth.

• It's covered in reflective ice.

• It generates its own light.

What is a waxing crescent moon?

• A full moon becoming visible.

• A new moon growing in visibility.

• A full moon getting smaller.

• The last visible phase before a new moon.

What is the significance of the 'terminator' on the moon?

• It indicates the moon's equator.

• It's the line where the moon's orbit stops.

• It's the deepest crater on the moon.

• It marks the boundary between day and night.

What does the term 'gibbous' refer to?

• The dark side of the moon

• A shrinking moon

• A new moon phase

• A swollen moon appearance

How does the moon's appearance change from new moon to first quarter?

• It becomes less visible.

• It appears to grow thicker.

• It moves closer to the Earth.

• It changes color.

When is the moon fully illuminated?

• During the third quarter

• At the first quarter

• During a new moon

• At the full moon

What does 'waning' mean in terms of the moon's phases?

• Changing color

• Shrinking in visibility

• Shifting orbit

• Growing in brightness