What phase follows the New Moon?

Explore the intricacies of the Sun-Earth-Moon System with our C20 Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions to gain a comprehensive understanding of celestial mechanics. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What phase follows the New Moon?

Explanation:
The phase after a New Moon is the waxing crescent. After the Moon is between the Earth and Sun (New Moon), it begins to move in its orbit and the Sun starts to illuminate more of its near side. That growing illumination creates a small crescent shape, which is called a waxing crescent because the lit portion is increasing. It’s typically visible just after sunset or a little before sunrise, depending on the season. The terms “waxing” vs. “waning” reflect whether the visible illuminated amount is increasing or decreasing, and after the New Moon, it’s increasing, hence waxing crescent.

The phase after a New Moon is the waxing crescent. After the Moon is between the Earth and Sun (New Moon), it begins to move in its orbit and the Sun starts to illuminate more of its near side. That growing illumination creates a small crescent shape, which is called a waxing crescent because the lit portion is increasing. It’s typically visible just after sunset or a little before sunrise, depending on the season. The terms “waxing” vs. “waning” reflect whether the visible illuminated amount is increasing or decreasing, and after the New Moon, it’s increasing, hence waxing crescent.

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