When the visible portion of the Moon is getting smaller, the Moon is which phase?

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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

When the visible portion of the Moon is getting smaller, the Moon is which phase?

Explanation:
The visible illuminated portion of the Moon changes as it orbits Earth, going through waxing (increasing illumination) and waning (decreasing illumination) phases. If the visible part is getting smaller, you’re in the waning part of the cycle, after the full Moon, as we see less of the lit side each night. This includes waning gibbous, last (third) quarter, and waning crescent phases. So the phase described is waning. Waxing means the illumination is increasing, a first quarter is still waxing, and a full Moon is at maximum illumination, not shrinking.

The visible illuminated portion of the Moon changes as it orbits Earth, going through waxing (increasing illumination) and waning (decreasing illumination) phases. If the visible part is getting smaller, you’re in the waning part of the cycle, after the full Moon, as we see less of the lit side each night. This includes waning gibbous, last (third) quarter, and waning crescent phases. So the phase described is waning. Waxing means the illumination is increasing, a first quarter is still waxing, and a full Moon is at maximum illumination, not shrinking.

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