The Moon

Front

What is the Moon?

Back

The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite, orbiting our planet and affecting tides.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are the different shapes the Moon appears to take as it orbits Earth, including New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is a waxing crescent moon?

Back

A waxing crescent moon is the phase where the Moon is less than half illuminated and is increasing in illumination.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is a waxing gibbous moon?

Back

A waxing gibbous moon is the phase where the Moon is more than half illuminated and is still increasing in illumination.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is a waning crescent moon?

Back

A waning crescent moon is the phase where the Moon is less than half illuminated and is decreasing in illumination.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

How does the Moon's gravity affect humans?

Back

Due to the Moon's lower gravity, humans would tend to jump or leap higher than on Earth.

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What is the average speed of the Moon in one rotation?

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The average speed of the Moon in one rotation is about 10 miles per hour.

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What causes the Moon phases?

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The Moon phases are caused by the changing angles of sunlight hitting the Moon as it orbits Earth.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to cover the Moon.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1