Q:
Why do we see the phases of the moon?
A:
Quick Answer
The lunar phases are caused by the changing angles of the sun, the moon and Earth, as the moon revolves around Earth. Different amounts of the illuminated part of the moon are visible from Earth. The lunar phases include the new moon, first quarter, full moon, third quarter, crescent and gibbous.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
A new moon takes place when the moon is between Earth and the sun. The full moon occurs when Earth is between the sun and the moon. The third and first quarter, sometimes referred to as the half-moon, takes place when the moon is at a 90 degree angle with respect to the sun and Earth.
Learn more about Our MoonRelated Questions
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Q:
Why does the moon have phases?
A: The moon has phases with distinct appearances because it is constantly rotating around the Earth and being illuminated by the sun at different angles. The ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What makes a half moon?
A: According to NASA, the phases of the moon are caused by the sunlight and shadow created by its relative position to the sun. At two points during the 29.5-... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the difference between a new moon vs. a full moon?
A: The phases of the moon are determined by the angle at which sunlight approaches the moon relative to the position of the Earth. When the sun is behind the ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why does the moon wax and wane?
A: The moon appears to wax and wane through different phases due to how much of its illuminated surface is visible from Earth. At any given time, half the moo... Full Answer >Filed Under:
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