Moon Phases Practice: Sample Flashcard Questions (optional)

Front

What are the phases of the moon?

Back

The phases of the moon are the different shapes of the moon as seen from Earth, which change in a cycle of about 29.5 days. The main phases are New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

A New Moon occurs when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the sun, making it invisible from Earth.

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

A Full Moon occurs when the Earth is between the sun and the moon, allowing the entire face of the moon to be illuminated.

Front

What does 'waxing' mean in relation to the moon?

Back

'Waxing' refers to the phase of the moon when it is getting bigger and brighter, moving from New Moon to Full Moon.

Front

What does 'waning' mean in relation to the moon?

Back

'Waning' refers to the phase of the moon when it is getting smaller and darker, moving from Full Moon to New Moon.

Front

How long does it take for the moon to complete one full cycle of phases?

Back

It takes approximately 29.5 days for the moon to complete one full cycle of phases.

Front

What is the difference between a First Quarter Moon and a Third Quarter Moon?

Back

A First Quarter Moon is when half of the moon is illuminated and is increasing in brightness, while a Third Quarter Moon is when half of the moon is illuminated and is decreasing in brightness.

Front

What is a Waxing Gibbous Moon?

Back

A Waxing Gibbous Moon is the phase after the First Quarter when more than half of the moon is illuminated but not yet full.

Front

What is a Waning Gibbous Moon?

Back

A Waning Gibbous Moon is the phase after a Full Moon when more than half of the moon is still illuminated but is decreasing in brightness.

Front

How can you predict the next Full Moon date?

Back

To predict the next Full Moon date, add approximately 29.5 days to the date of the last Full Moon.