Slide Show
The Earth and the Solar System
9.0 Describe lunar and solar eclipses, the observed moon phases, and tides. Relate them to the relative positions of the earth, moon. and sun.
- Lunar eclipses
- Solar eclipses
- Moon phases
- Tides
A solar eclipse is caused by the Earth passing through the Moon's shadow. Since the Moon's orbit is tilted by 5 degrees, we do not have a solar eclipse every time there is a New Moon. We only have solar eclipses when the wobble of the Moon's orbit brings the Moon perfectly between the Earth and the Sun.
The side of the Moon facing the Sun is always illuminated. As it orbits the Earth we see varying combinations of the lighted and the dark parts of the surface.
Phases of the Moon Study Link 1
Spring Tides
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New or Full Moon
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Sun and Moon Pulling in Parallel Directions
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Lunar and Solar Tides Add Up
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Unusually Large Tidal Range
Neap Tides
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First or Last Quarter
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Sun and Moon Pulling At Right Angles
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Lunar and Solar Tides Partially Cancel
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Unusually Small Tidal Range
