Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

How much of the Moon’s area can be seen from the Earth’s surface?

  1. 39%

  2. 50%

  3. 59%

  4. 74%
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

About 59% of the Moon's surface is visible from Earth due to a phenomenon called libration - the apparent wobble in the Moon's motion caused by its elliptical orbit and tilted rotation axis. This allows observers to see slightly beyond the 50% that would be visible if the Moon were perfectly tidally locked. The remaining 41% is permanently hidden from Earth's view.

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