Question

part 3 - moon facts: scroll through the page and look for the following information. is the moon moving closer to earth or further? include how much it is moving per year why do we always see the same side of the moon? what is the temperature of the moon in full sun? what is the temperature of the moon in darkness?

Explanation:

Step1: Moon - Earth distance change

The Moon is receding due to tidal interactions. The rate is well - established through scientific measurements.

Step2: Synchronous rotation

The gravitational pull of the Earth on the Moon has slowed its rotation until it matches its orbital period.

Step3: Moon temperature in sunlight

The lack of atmosphere on the Moon means there is no insulation, so sunlight heats the surface to high temperatures.

Step4: Moon temperature in darkness

Without sunlight and no atmosphere to retain heat, the surface cools rapidly to very low temperatures.

Answer:

1. The Moon is moving further away from Earth. It moves approximately 3.8 centimeters per year.
2. We always see the same side of the Moon because the Moon's rotation period (the time it takes to spin once on its axis) is the same as its orbital period (the time it takes to orbit the Earth). This is called synchronous rotation.
3. The temperature of the Moon in full - sun can reach about 127°C (261°F).
4. The temperature of the Moon in darkness can drop to about - 173°C (- 280°F).