NGS - Astronomy and Space - Sec. 2: The Moon - Earth’s Satellit

What causes the moon to move in an orbit around the Earth?

• The sun's gravitational pull

• The wind in space

• The Earth's gravitational pull

• The moon's own gravity

Answer explanation

The moon orbits the Earth primarily due to the Earth's gravitational pull, which keeps the moon in a stable path around it. The sun's gravity also affects the moon, but the Earth's gravity is the dominant force in this interaction.

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What are the different forms of the moon you see from Earth called?

• Phases

• Tides

• Eclipses

• Shadows

Answer explanation

The different forms of the moon seen from Earth are called 'phases'. These phases occur due to the changing positions of the moon, Earth, and sun, affecting how much of the moon's surface is illuminated.

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How long does the lunar cycle last?

• 30 days

• 365 days

• 295 days

• 28 days

Answer explanation

The lunar cycle, also known as the synodic month, lasts approximately 29.5 days. Therefore, the closest correct answer is 28 days, but 295 days is incorrect as it exceeds the actual duration.

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What is a solar eclipse?

• When the moon moves into Earth's shadow

• When the sun is completely blocked by clouds

• When the moon's shadow appears on the Earth's surface

• When the Earth's shadow appears on the moon

Answer explanation

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon's shadow falls on the Earth's surface, blocking the sun's light. This is why the correct answer is 'When the moon's shadow appears on the Earth's surface'.

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What is a lunar eclipse?

• When the Earth's shadow appears on the sun

• When the sun is completely blocked by the moon

• When the moon moves into Earth's shadow

• When the moon's shadow appears on the Earth's surface

Answer explanation

A lunar eclipse occurs when the moon moves into Earth's shadow, blocking sunlight from reaching it. This is different from a solar eclipse, where the moon blocks the sun's light from reaching Earth.

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What are craters on the moon?

• Large, round pits caused by impacts of meteoroids

• Flat areas formed by water

• Mountains formed by volcanic activity

• Valleys formed by erosion

Answer explanation

Craters on the moon are large, round pits formed by the impacts of meteoroids striking the lunar surface, making this the correct choice. Other options describe different geological features not related to craters.

What are maria on the moon?

• Highlands

• Dark, flat areas formed from lava

• Craters

• Rivers

Answer explanation

Maria on the moon are dark, flat areas formed from ancient volcanic lava flows. They contrast with the lighter highlands and are less cratered, making them distinct features of the lunar surface.

What are highlands on the moon?

• Flat areas formed by lava

• Old and the most highly cratered regions

• Mountain ranges

• Deep valleys

Answer explanation

Highlands on the moon are characterized as old and the most highly cratered regions. Unlike flat lava plains or deep valleys, these areas are elevated and have endured significant impact from meteoroids, resulting in their craters.

What causes the phases of the moon?

• The sun's movement

• The Earth's rotation

• The changing relative positions of the moon, Earth, and sun

• The moon's rotation

Answer explanation

The phases of the moon are caused by the changing relative positions of the moon, Earth, and sun. As the moon orbits Earth, different portions of its surface are illuminated by the sun, creating the visible phases.

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What is the sequence of phases of the moon called?

• Solar cycle

• Lunar cycle

• Tidal cycle

• Eclipse cycle

Answer explanation

The sequence of phases of the moon, including new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter, is called the lunar cycle. This cycle occurs approximately every 29.5 days, distinguishing it from other cycles like the solar cycle.

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