Waxing — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- An increase in the Moon’s observed illuminated fraction over the phase sequence. (Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems)
- Describes a Moon that is growing more lit each night, moving toward full moon. (Earth & Space Science)
Where it is taught
- Moon Phases: Sunlight & Viewing Geometry — Earth, Moon, Sun & Space Models, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
- Earth, Moon & Sun: Moon Phases — Earth, Moon & Solar System, Earth & Space Science, Grade 9
In use
3 days — the Moon runs through eight phases in the same order every single time: new moon → waxing crescent → first quarter (exactly half-lit) → waxing gibbous → full moon → waning gibbous → third quarter (half-lit again) → waning crescent → and back to new.
Earth, Moon & Sun: Moon Phases
Questions using waxing
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
Whether the observed illuminated fraction is increasing or decreasing, not a universal left/right rule for every observer.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
The visible illuminated fraction grows from new toward full and then decreases toward last quarter. About half the Moon remains sunlit throughout; the viewing fraction changes. Eclipses need additional alignment with the tilted orbit, so the full-phase entry does not guarantee Earth’s shadow crosses the Moon.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.
Problem 3
- Every ordinary Moon phase is caused by Earth’s shadow.
- waxing: An increase in the Moon’s observed illuminated fraction over the phase sequence.
- A cloudy missing observation proves the Moon has disappeared.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
waxing: An increase in the Moon’s observed illuminated fraction over the phase sequence.
An increase in the Moon’s observed illuminated fraction over the phase sequence. The visible illuminated fraction grows from new toward full and then decreases toward last quarter. About half the Moon remains sunlit throughout; the viewing fraction changes. Eclipses need additional alignment with the tilted orbit, so the full-phase entry does not guarantee Earth’s shadow crosses the Moon.
Problem 4
- More than half lit, and growing each night
- Less than half lit, and shrinking each night
- Completely dark
- Fully lit and about to shrink
Answer and explanation
More than half lit, and growing each night
Gibbous means more than half lit but not full; waxing means it's still growing toward full moon.