AsterQuiz Moon Phases QuizOnline version Moon phase basics by Karen Kord 1 What mainly causes the Moon's phases and shape changes we see from Earth? a Earth's shadow blocking the Sun b Moon's atmosphere changing brightness c The Moon's orbit around Earth and the Sunlit portion we observe 2 What is a waxing crescent? a A crescent lit on the left after full moon b A fully lit Moon c A crescent lit on the right after new moon and increasing in illumination 3 When does the first quarter phase occur? a Right after new Moon b About a week after the new Moon, half of the near side is lit c Right after full Moon 4 Which phase follows the full Moon? a First quarter b Waxing crescent c Waning gibbous 5 Which phase immediately precedes the new Moon? a First quarter b Waxing crescent c Waning crescent 6 Why does the Moon appear to change shape over the month? a Earth's atmosphere changes the Moon b The Moon changes its rotation speed c We see different amounts of the Sunlit side as it orbits Earth 7 Approximately how long is a full lunar cycle (new Moon to new Moon)? a About 7 days b About 365 days c About 29.5 days 8 During which phase is the Moon fully illuminated as seen from Earth? a Full Moon b New Moon c Third Quarter 9 What phase is opposite the New Moon in the sky? a New Crescent b First Quarter c Full Moon 10 What best describes waxing vs waning phases? a Waxing means increasing illuminated area; waning means decreasing b Both mean the Moon is closer to Earth c They refer to the Moon's distance from the Sun
