Flashcard Prep Homework Moon Phases & Eclipses

Front

What is a Crescent Moon?

Back

A Crescent Moon is a phase of the Moon where a small section facing Earth is illuminated, appearing as a thin sliver.

Front

What occurs during a total solar eclipse?

Back

During a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun, blocking its light from reaching Earth.

Front

Why do lunar eclipses not happen every month?

Back

Lunar eclipses do not happen every month because the Moon's orbit is tilted relative to Earth's orbit, causing eclipses to occur only every few years.

Front

What is a Waning Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waning Crescent Moon is a phase where the illuminated part of the Moon is decreasing, appearing as a thin crescent.

Front

What is a Waxing Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waxing Crescent Moon is a phase where the illuminated part of the Moon is increasing, appearing as a thin crescent.

Front

Define a Full Moon.

Back

A Full Moon is a phase where the entire face of the Moon is illuminated and visible from Earth.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

A New Moon is a phase where the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, and its illuminated side is facing away from Earth, making it invisible.

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 Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light.

Front

What is the difference between a Total and Partial Solar Eclipse?

Back

In a Total Solar Eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun, while in a Partial Solar Eclipse, only a part of the Sun is obscured.