What determines the different phases of the moon?

The different phases of the moon are determined by the moon’s position in relation to the sun and Earth. As the moon orbits Earth, varying portions of its surface are illuminated by sunlight, which creates the distinct phases we observe from our perspective on Earth. These phases include the new moon, crescent, first quarter, gibbous, full moon, and back again, as the moon travels around Earth in approximately a 29.5-day cycle.

The moon's position relative to the sun and Earth affects how much of its illuminated surface we can see. For example, during a new moon, the sun and moon are aligned, and the side of the moon facing Earth is in shadow, making it invisible. Conversely, during a full moon, the Earth is positioned between the sun and the moon, allowing us to see the entire illuminated face of the moon.

The options related to the moon's distance from Earth, its rotation, and weather conditions on Earth do not directly affect the moon's phases. Although the moon's distance does influence its apparent size and brightness in the sky, it does not change the fundamental pattern of illumination. The moon's rotation is synchronous with its orbit around Earth, which means it shows the same face to Earth but does