LEAP Earth-Sun-Moon System Patterns 2

Question 1

Why does the Moon appear to change shape over the course of a month?

Accepted Answer

Different amounts of the sunlit side of the Moon are visible from Earth

Answer

The Moon physically changes size and shape

Answer

Clouds on the Moon block sunlight

Answer

Earth's shadow covers different portions of the Moon each night

Question 2

A student notices that the Sun rises earlier each morning for several weeks. What season is most likely approaching?

Accepted Answer

Summer

Answer

Winter

Answer

Fall

Answer

Spring has just ended

Question 3

What is the term for the point in Earth's orbit when it is closest to the Sun?

Accepted Answer

Perihelion

Answer

Aphelion

Answer

Equinox

Answer

Solstice

Question 4

During a full moon, where is the Moon located relative to Earth and the Sun?

Accepted Answer

On the opposite side of Earth from the Sun

Answer

Between Earth and the Sun

Answer

At a right angle to the Earth-Sun line

Answer

Directly above Earth's North Pole

Question 5

Which event occurs when day and night are approximately equal in length all over Earth?

Accepted Answer

Equinox

Answer

Summer solstice

Answer

Winter solstice

Answer

Perihelion

Question 6

A spring tide occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned. What effect does this have on ocean tides?

Accepted Answer

Tides are higher and lower than normal

Answer

Tides are weaker than normal

Answer

Tides occur only once per day

Answer

Tides stop occurring temporarily

Question 7

How long does it take the Moon to complete one full orbit around Earth?

Accepted Answer

About 27–29 days

Answer

7 days

Answer

14 days

Answer

365 days