The Moon

Introduction

The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite and is the fifth largest moon in the solar system. It has a significant impact on Earth, influencing tides, and has been the subject of scientific study and exploration.

Phases of the Moon

The Moon goes through a cycle of phases as it orbits Earth. The phases include new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent.

Moon's Orbit and Rotation

The Moon takes about 27.3 days to orbit Earth and rotates on its axis at the same rate, causing the same side of the Moon to always face Earth. This phenomenon is known as synchronous rotation.

Impact on Earth

The Moon's gravitational pull causes tides on Earth. The gravitational force of the Moon creates two bulges in the Earth's oceans, leading to the phenomenon of high and low tides.

Moon Exploration

Various space missions have been conducted to explore the Moon, including the Apollo missions by NASA, which resulted in humans landing on the Moon's surface for the first time in 1969.

Study Guide

1. What is the Moon's impact on Earth's tides?
2. Describe the phases of the Moon.
3. Explain why the same side of the Moon always faces Earth.
4. Discuss the significance of the Apollo missions in Moon exploration.

[Moon] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• The Sun-Earth-Moon SystemScience • Seventh Grade