LEAP Earth-Sun-Moon System Patterns 5

Question 1

A model shows Earth, the Sun, and Moon with the Moon between Earth and the Sun but slightly above the orbital plane. What event does this represent?

Accepted Answer

A new moon with no eclipse

Answer

Because the Moon's orbit is tilted about 5 degrees relative to Earth's orbital plane, most new moons pass above or below the Sun-Earth line without causing an eclipse.

Question 2

Which statement best explains why the Southern Hemisphere experiences summer in December?

Accepted Answer

The Southern Hemisphere tilts toward the Sun during December

Answer

When the Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the Sun in December, the Southern Hemisphere tilts toward it, receiving more direct sunlight and experiencing summer.

Question 3

An observer on Earth watches the Moon over four weeks. On day one it is not visible (new moon). On about which day would a full moon appear?

Accepted Answer

Day 14–15

Answer

The Moon reaches the full phase approximately 14–15 days after a new moon, when it has moved halfway through its orbit.

Question 4

Why does the Sun appear to move across the sky from east to west each day?

Accepted Answer

Earth rotates from west to east, making the Sun appear to move westward

Answer

Earth rotates eastward on its axis, which makes the Sun and other celestial objects appear to move westward across the sky.

Question 5

If Earth had no axial tilt, which of the following would be true?

Accepted Answer

There would be no seasons; all locations would have consistent day length year-round

Answer

Without axial tilt, Earth's equator would always face the Sun equally, eliminating seasonal changes in temperature and day length.

(LEAP) Louisiana Educational Assessment Program Practice Test

(LEAP) Louisiana Educational Assessment Program Practice Test

LEAP Earth-Sun-Moon System Patterns 5