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

Study for the 8th grade Sun-Earth-Moon System Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

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

Explanation:
Growing illumination is waxing. When more of the Moon’s sunlit side becomes visible night after night, you’re in the waxing phases, moving from New Moon toward Full Moon through waxing crescent, first quarter, and waxing gibbous. After the Full Moon the illuminated portion starts to shrink—that’s waning—and New Moon is when it’s not visible at all. Third Quarter is part of the waning period, while New Moon is invisible. So, if the visible portion is getting larger, the Moon is waxing.

Growing illumination is waxing. When more of the Moon’s sunlit side becomes visible night after night, you’re in the waxing phases, moving from New Moon toward Full Moon through waxing crescent, first quarter, and waxing gibbous. After the Full Moon the illuminated portion starts to shrink—that’s waning—and New Moon is when it’s not visible at all. Third Quarter is part of the waning period, while New Moon is invisible. So, if the visible portion is getting larger, the Moon is waxing.

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