Sun, Earth and Moon Review

Front

Angle of the Tilt of Earth axis

Back

23.5°

Answer explanation

The tilt of the Earth's axis is approximately 23.5°. This tilt is responsible for the changing seasons as the Earth orbits the Sun, making 23.5° the correct answer.

Front

Date of summer solstice in Northern Hemisphere

Back

June 21

Answer explanation

The summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere occurs around June 21, marking the longest day of the year. This date is widely recognized as the official start of summer.

Front

Length of one Earth day:

Back

24 hrs

Answer explanation

The length of one Earth day is defined as 24 hours, which is the time it takes for the Earth to complete one full rotation on its axis. Therefore, the correct answer is 24 hrs.

Front

Length of one Earth revolution:

Back

365.25 days

Answer explanation

The Earth takes approximately 365.25 days to complete one full revolution around the Sun. This accounts for the extra day added every four years, known as a leap year, making 365.25 days the correct answer.

Front

Hours of sunlight at the equator during an equinox

Back

12 hrs

Answer explanation

At the equator during an equinox, day and night are approximately equal, resulting in about 12 hours of sunlight. This is why the correct answer is 12 hrs.

Front

Date of winter solstice in Northern Hemisphere

Back

Dec. 21

Answer explanation

The winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere occurs around December 21, marking the shortest day of the year. This date can vary slightly, but December 21 is the most commonly recognized date.

Front

What does 'waxing' mean in terms of the moon?

Back

When we are seeing more of the lit side of the moon

Answer explanation

'Waxing' refers to the phase of the moon when we see more of its lit side. This occurs after the new moon and before the full moon, as the illuminated portion increases.

Front

What does 'waning' mean in terms of the moon?

Back

When we are seeing less of the lit side of the moon

Answer explanation

'Waning' refers to the phase of the moon when we see less of its lit side. This occurs after a full moon, as the visible illuminated portion decreases until it becomes new.

Front

What does 'gibbous' mean in terms of the moon?

Back

More than half side lit, but less than full

Answer explanation

The term 'gibbous' refers to a phase of the moon where more than half of its surface is illuminated by the sun, but it is not yet fully illuminated. Therefore, the correct choice is 'More than half side lit, but less than full'.

Front

Causes day and night:

Back

rotation

Answer explanation

The cause of day and night is the Earth's rotation on its axis. As the Earth spins, different parts face the Sun, creating daylight, while the opposite side experiences night.