The phases of the moon appear because
The phases of the moon appear because
A: We can see only that part of the moon which reflects light towards us
B: The distance of moon keeps changing
C: The shadow of the Earth covers only a part of the moon surface
D: The thickness of the moon atmosphere is not constant
The phases of the moon occur because sunlight falls on different parts of the moon as it orbits the Earth. We can only see the part that reflects light towards us. This creates phases such as crescent half full and new moon. The cycle takes about twenty nine days. This is different from lunar eclipses which are caused by the Earth shadow. The phases of the moon have been used for calendars traditions and religious events for thousands of years.