Moon & Its Phases

Front

What is the Moon?

Back

The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite, orbiting around our planet.

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are the different shapes the Moon appears to have from Earth, caused by its position relative to the Earth and Sun.

Front

What causes the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are caused by the Moon's orbit around Earth.

Front

What is a gibbous moon?

Back

A gibbous moon is a phase where more than half of the Moon is illuminated but it is not yet full.

Front

What is a crescent moon?

Back

A crescent moon is a phase where less than half of the Moon is illuminated.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is a phase where the entire face of the Moon is illuminated.

Front

What is a quarter moon?

Back

A quarter moon is a phase where half of the Moon is illuminated.

Front

What are lunar maria?

Back

Lunar maria are the dark, flat areas on the Moon's surface formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the orbit of the Moon?

Back

The orbit of the Moon is the path it takes around Earth, taking about 27.3 days to complete one cycle.

Front

How does the Moon affect tides?

Back

The Moon's gravitational pull causes the ocean tides on Earth to rise and fall.