Patterns in the Solar System

Why does Venus look bigger and then smaller in the sky?

• When it's orbit is closer to us, it looks larger

• It changes shape due to gravitational forces

• It always looks like its the same size

• The way light refracts off its surface

What direction do all objects orbit the Sun in?

• 
• 

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

Planets closer to the Sun are usually smaller and orbit faster than further away planets.

• True

• False

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

The diagram shows the relative positions of Earth, the moon, and the sun. The moon is shown at four possible positions around Earth. Which position of the moon could result in a lunar eclipse?

• 1

• 2

• 3

• 4

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

The cycle of the moon's phases repeats in a predictable way. About how long does it take to cycle from one new moon to the next new moon?

• about one day

• about one year

• about one week

• about one month

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

The phases of the moon are caused by the relative positions of Earth, the sun, and the moon. Lunar phases refer to the appearance of the illuminated portion of the moon as seen by the observer on Earth. When the moon is aligned between Earth and the sun, which phase is happening?

• full moon

• new moon

• first quarter moon

• third quarter moon

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

The diagram shows the position of Earth at four different times during the year. In what position would the United States receive the most hours of daylight? (Hint: find the USA on the globe)

• A

• B

• C

• D

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

When the moon is waxing, its lighted part appears to ___________.

• increase in size

• decrease in size

• become invisible

• become totally visible

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

What is the primary reason for the different seasons on Earth?

• The distance from the Sun changes

• The tilt of Earth's axis

• The shape of Earth's orbit

• The speed of Earth's rotation

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Which planet in the Solar System has the most moons?

• Earth

• Mars

• Jupiter

• Saturn