Section 1
The Repeating Cycle
Key Idea
Because the Moon's orbit is a stable loop, the sequence of phases is a fixed, predictable pattern.
It always follows the order: New Waxing Crescent Quarter Full Waning. The Moon never reverses direction.
Key Idea.
Section 1
The Repeating Cycle
Because the Moon's orbit is a stable loop, the sequence of phases is a fixed, predictable pattern.
It always follows the order: New Waxing Crescent Quarter Full Waning. The Moon never reverses direction.
Section 2
Using the Pattern to Predict
Since the cycle takes about one month, we can predict the future. If the Moon is full today, we know it will be a New Moon in about two weeks.
This predictability is the basis of the lunar calendar, allowing civilizations to track months and years.
Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.
Section 1
The Repeating Cycle
Because the Moon's orbit is a stable loop, the sequence of phases is a fixed, predictable pattern.
It always follows the order: New Waxing Crescent Quarter Full Waning. The Moon never reverses direction.
Section 2
Using the Pattern to Predict
Since the cycle takes about one month, we can predict the future. If the Moon is full today, we know it will be a New Moon in about two weeks.
This predictability is the basis of the lunar calendar, allowing civilizations to track months and years.