The Moon and Its Phases

Flashcards covering the formation, characteristics, and effects of the Moon, as well as its phases and the lunar cycle.

How did the Moon form?

The Moon was formed 4.5 billion years ago when a piece of rock collided with Earth and broke off, along with others that were orbiting, coming together to form the Moon.

What is the Moon's size compared to Earth?

The Moon is about a quarter of the size of Earth, with a diameter of 2,149 miles (3,475 kilometers).

What does the Moon look like from Earth?

From the night sky, the Moon looks like a white circle; closer observation shows craters and dark areas known as seas which are large areas of dark lava.

Why can't humans live on the Moon?

Humans can't live on the Moon due to the lack of atmosphere, extreme temperature swings, lack of gravity, and lack of oxygen.

How does the Moon affect Earth?

The Moon's gravitational forces cause tides on Earth, creating high tides on the sides facing and opposite from the Moon.

What is a lunar cycle?

A lunar cycle is the time it takes for the Moon to change from New Moon to New Moon, which is approximately 29.5 days.

What are the different phases of the Moon?

The eight phases are: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

What happens during a New Moon?

During a New Moon, the Moon is directly between the Sun and Earth, with the side facing Earth not illuminated.

What is the difference between waxing and waning phases?

Waxing phases indicate increasing light (growing from New Moon to Full Moon), while waning phases indicate decreasing light (shrinking from Full Moon to New Moon).

What is the temperature on the Moon?

The daytime average temperature on the Moon is 253°F (123°C) and nighttime temperature reaches minus 387°F (-233°C).