Moon & Its Phases

Front

What is the moon?

Back

The moon is a natural satellite that orbits Earth.

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.

Front

What causes the moon to shine?

Back

The moon shines because it reflects light from the sun.

Front

What is a new moon?

Back

A new moon is when the moon is between the Earth and the sun, and we cannot see it.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is when the entire face of the moon is illuminated by the sun.

Front

What is a quarter moon?

Back

A quarter moon is when half of the moon is illuminated and half is dark.

Front

How long does it take for the moon to complete one orbit around Earth?

Back

It takes about 27.3 days for the moon to complete one orbit around Earth.

Front

What is the difference between a waxing and waning moon?

Back

A waxing moon is getting bigger, while a waning moon is getting smaller.

Front

What is a gibbous moon?

Back

A gibbous moon is when more than half of the moon is illuminated but it is not yet full.

Front

Why does the moon appear to change shape?

Back

The moon appears to change shape because of its position relative to the Earth and the sun.