Step 5 of 18 · Observing the universe · SC4-OTU-01
Moon phases and eclipses
Half the Moon is always lit — the phase is how much of that half we can see.
1
Learn it
Explain the phases of the Moon and solar and lunar eclipses using the positions of the Sun, Earth and Moon
Idea 1 of 4
The Moon reflects sunlight
The Moon makes no light of its own. The Sun always lights the half of the Moon that faces it, just as it lights half of Earth.
2
Know it by heart
Say each one in your head, then tap to check.
3
Try it
Play — nothing here is marked
Lining up the Sun, Earth and Moon…
Drag the Moon round its orbit · drag the space to turn
4
A full-marks answer
Explain why we see phases of the Moon.
3 marksBuilt one line at a time — say the next line before you reveal it
- The Moon does not make its own light; it reflects light from the Sun.(where the light comes from)
2 to go
5
Words to know
Tap a card to flip it
Step 5 · last bit
Ready? Prove it.
A round of ten. Score 8 or more and this step is done — then on to how we know.