Lunar Phases and Tides

Front

What causes tides?

Back

Tides are caused by the combined gravitational forces of the sun and moon.

Front

Where is the sun located in relation to the moon during a first quarter moon?

Back

The sun is located on the left of the diagram.

Front

How does the moon appear from point B during the lunar cycle?

Back

The appearance of the moon from point B can vary based on its phase.

Front

What does a first quarter moon look like?

Back

A first quarter moon appears as a half-circle, with the right side illuminated.

Front

What does the term 'waning' refer to in the lunar cycle?

Back

Waning refers to the phase when the visible portion of the moon decreases.

Front

What is a 'waxing' moon?

Back

A waxing moon is when the visible portion of the moon increases.

Front

What is a 'crescent' moon?

Back

A crescent moon is when less than half of the moon is illuminated.

Front

What is a 'gibbous' moon?

Back

A gibbous moon is when more than half of the moon is illuminated.

Front

What is the role of the sun in the lunar phases?

Back

The sun's position relative to the moon and Earth determines the moon's phases.

Front

What is the difference between spring tides and neap tides?

Back

Spring tides occur during full and new moons, while neap tides occur during the first and third quarters.