LEAP Earth-Sun-Moon System Patterns 3

Question 1

In Louisiana, the Sun appears highest in the sky at noon during which season?

Accepted Answer

Summer

Answer

During summer in the Northern Hemisphere, Earth's axial tilt causes the Sun to reach its highest point in the sky at noon.

Question 2

What causes a solar eclipse?

Accepted Answer

The Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight

Answer

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on Earth's surface.

Question 3

Why do we always see the same side of the Moon from Earth?

Accepted Answer

The Moon rotates once per orbit around Earth (synchronous rotation)

Answer

The Moon's rotation period equals its orbital period—about 27 days—so the same side always faces Earth.

Question 4

A crescent moon is visible just after sunset in the western sky. What phase is the Moon in?

Accepted Answer

Waxing crescent

Answer

A waxing crescent appears shortly after a new moon and is visible in the western sky just after sunset.

Question 5

Earth completes one full rotation on its axis every 24 hours. What observable pattern does this directly cause?

Accepted Answer

The daily cycle of day and night

Answer

Earth's 24-hour rotation on its axis causes the cycle of day and night as different parts of Earth face toward or away from the Sun.

(LEAP) Louisiana Educational Assessment Program Practice Test