Moon

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

Formation and Composition

The most widely accepted theory for the formation of the moon is the giant impact hypothesis. This theory suggests that the moon was formed from debris left over after a collision between Earth and a Mars-sized body early in the history of the solar system.

The moon's surface is covered in craters, plains, and mountains. It is composed of rocky material, with a relatively thin and patchy atmosphere consisting of various gases.

Phases of the Moon

The moon goes through different phases as it orbits the Earth. These phases include new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. The changing appearance of the moon is due to the relative positions of the Earth, moon, and sun.

Moon's Influence on Earth

The moon's gravitational pull is responsible for the ocean tides on Earth. This pull is also the reason behind the phenomenon of tidal locking, which has resulted in the moon always showing the same face to the Earth.

Exploration of the Moon

The moon has been the target of numerous space missions, both manned and unmanned. The Apollo missions in the late 1960s and early 1970s were the first to land humans on the moon. Since then, various robotic missions have continued to study the moon's surface and its composition.

Study Guide

1. What is the giant impact hypothesis and how does it explain the formation of the moon?
2. Describe the different phases of the moon and explain the cause of these phases.
3. How does the moon's gravitational pull influence the tides on Earth?
4. Discuss the significance of the Apollo missions in the exploration of the moon.
5. Explain the concept of tidal locking and its effect on the moon's rotation.

[Moon] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• The Sun-Earth-Moon SystemScience • Seventh Grade