Moon Quiz Practice Questions

Test Date 4/29/25

Name the 8 phases of the moon in order, starting with the New Moon. 

New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, Waning Crescent.

Why do we see different phases of the moon?

We see different phases of the moon due to its position relative to the Earth and the Sun, which affects how much of its surface is illuminated as observed from Earth.

What causes the changing illumination of the moon as it orbits the Earth? 

The changing illumination of the moon is caused by its orbit around the Earth, which alters the angle at which sunlight reflects off its surface.

How long is a lunar month?

A lunar month is about 29.5 days.

What does the Moon look like?

The moon appears as a bright disk in the night sky, characterized by its craters and maria, which are dark basaltic plains formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

Does the Moon produce their own light?

No, the Moon reflects the sun’s light and it illuminates in the night sky.

What is it like on the moon?

The Moon’s surface has no atmospheric or weather conditions, or large gravitational pulls. It’s temperature in the morning is extremely hot, and at night was extremely cold.

What does the Moon do?

The Moon is a satellite which orbits the Earth and causes tides because of its gravitational pull.

What is a lunar cycle and how long does it last?

A lunar cycle is when the Moon completes a full rotation around Earth; it lasts 29.5 days, about a month.

What are Moon phases?

Moon phases are how the Moon looks at different times of the month from Earth. They vary depending on the position of the Sun, itself, and Earth, and Earth’s rotation.

What is the difference between waxing and waning phases?

Waxing means expanding in terms of the Moon’s visibility, while waning means dwindling, which relates to less of the Moon’s surface being illuminated by the Sun. Waxing occurs after the new moon, while waning occurs after the full moon.

Describe a Waxing Crescent.

A Waxing Crescent is when a sliver of the moon, or less than a half, is visible; the light is on the right side.

If the Moon is waning, then which side is the light on?

The left side of the Moon

What is the difference between first quarter and third quarter?

First Quarter occurs before full moon, third quarter begins after; first quarter’s light is on the right side, third quarter’s light is on the left

How long does a full moon last?

One day

About how long does a typical gibbous moon last?

Around six to seven days

Which is rarer; being born on a new moon or quarter moon?

Neither; both only last one day

When do solar eclipses form?

They always occur during a new moon phase.

Without the moon, what would happen to Earth’s rotation?

It would become significantly more wobbly.

Does the Moon rise and set at the same time every day?

No, its rise and set changes from day-to-day