Moon Phases, Eclipses, and Tides

Front

What are the phases of the moon?

Back

The phases of the moon are the different appearances of the moon as seen from Earth, caused by the moon's position relative to the Earth and the Sun. The main phases are new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter.

Front

What causes the different phases of the moon?

Back

The different phases of the moon are caused by the position of the moon in its orbit around the Earth.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun's light.

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

What are tides?

Back

Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the moon and the Sun.

Front

What is a spring tide?

Back

A spring tide is a higher than normal tide that occurs when the Sun, Earth, and moon are aligned, typically during the new moon and full moon phases.

Front

What is a neap tide?

Back

A neap tide is a lower than normal tide that occurs when the moon is in its first quarter and last quarter phases, when the Sun and moon are at right angles relative to the Earth.

Front

During which moon phases do neap tides occur?

Back

Neap tides occur during the first quarter and last quarter phases of the moon.

Front

What is the position of the moon during a solar eclipse?

Back

During a solar eclipse, the moon is positioned directly between the Earth and the Sun.

Front

What is the position of the moon during a lunar eclipse?

Back

During a lunar eclipse, the moon is positioned directly behind the Earth, in line with the Sun.