Moon Phases and Tides

Front

What is the main reason we can see the Moon in the sky?

Back

The Moon reflects light from the Sun.

Front

What causes the phases of the Moon?

Back

The views of light and dark on the Moon as visible from Earth, along with the Moon’s revolution around the Earth, and the fact that half of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun at all times.

Front

How long does a complete lunar cycle take?

Back

29.5 days.

Front

What is the correct order of the moon phases?

Back

new moon, waxing crescent, 1st quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, 3rd quarter, waning crescent.

Front

What alignment of the Sun, Earth, and Moon produces the highest tides?

Back

When the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned (Picture 1).

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 cover the Moon.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking the Sun's light.

Front

What is the difference between spring tides and neap tides?

Back

Spring tides occur during full and new moons when the tidal range is greatest, while neap tides occur during the first and third quarters of the moon when the tidal range is smallest.

Front

What is the role of gravity in tides?

Back

Gravity from the Moon and the Sun pulls on Earth's water, creating bulges that result in high and low tides.

Front

What is the significance of the Moon's revolution around the Earth?

Back

The Moon's revolution affects the appearance of its phases and the timing of tides on Earth.