Sun, Earth, and Moon

Front

What causes the seasons on Earth?

Back

The tilt of Earth's axis and its orbit around the Sun cause the seasons. When the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun, it experiences winter.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

A Full Moon occurs when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, making it appear as a complete circle in the sky.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is a Waxing Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waxing Crescent Moon is the phase of the Moon when a small sliver of light is visible, increasing in size as it approaches the First Quarter.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

How does the Moon reflect light?

Back

The Moon does not produce its own light; it reflects sunlight that hits its surface, which is why we can see it from Earth.

Front

What is the day/night cycle?

Back

The day/night cycle is caused by the rotation of Earth on its axis, leading to the alternation of daylight and darkness.

Front

What is the significance of the Earth's tilt?

Back

Earth's tilt (about 23.5 degrees) is crucial for creating seasons, as it affects the angle and intensity of sunlight received in different regions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What happens during a New Moon?

Back

During a New Moon, the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from Earth.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is the difference between a waxing and waning moon?

Back

A waxing moon is when the visible portion of the Moon is increasing, while a waning moon is when the visible portion is decreasing.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

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 influence the orbits of planets.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

How do the Moon's phases affect tides?

Back

The gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun on Earth's oceans causes tides, with higher tides during Full and New Moons.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1