Source: Extra Practice
When does a 'New Moon' phase occur?
Options
Option A
When the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun and visible from Earth.
Option B is correct
When the Moon is positioned directly between the Earth and the Sun, making its illuminated side face away from Earth.
Option C
When exactly half of the Moon's face is illuminated and visible from Earth.
Option D
When the Earth is positioned directly between the Sun and the Moon.
Explanation
A New Moon occurs when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun. From Earth, we cannot see the Moon because the side facing us is not illuminated by the Sun, while its illuminated side faces the Sun. The other options describe a Full Moon, Quarter Moon, or conditions for a lunar eclipse.