Unit 3: Earth, Moon and Sun: Moon Phases, Eclipses, Seasons & Tides Academic Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering academic terms related to Earth, Moon, and Sun dynamics, including moon phases, eclipses, seasons, and tides.

Alignment

Refers to the arrangement of objects in a straight line or in a correct relative position.

High tide

Occur when the water level reaches its highest level in a day.

Low tide

Occur when the water level reaches its lowest level in a day.

Neap tide

Neap tides occur during the first and third quarter moon phases, Earth, sun and moon are at right angles from each other. Neap tides cause weak high and low tides and have the smallest tidal range.

Northern Hemisphere

The half of the Earth that is north of the equator.

Orbit

To travel in a circular or elliptical path around another object.

Revolution

The Earth’s movement around the Sun or Moon around the Earth in an orbital path.

Rotation

The motion of a planet or moon spinning on its axis.

Solstice

When the direct sunlight is hitting most north or south of the equator. Longest hours of daylight (June 2-22) or shortest hours of daylight (Dec. 20-22) in the Northern Hemisphere.

Southern Hemisphere

The half of the Earth that is south of the equator.

Spring tide

Spring tides occur during the new and full moon, when Earth, sun and moon are aligned. These tides are very high or very low tides. Spring tides have the greatest tidal range.

Tidal range

The difference in height between high tide and low tide.

Tides

Daily rise and fall in the level of ocean water.