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Class 7 → Science → Chapter 12: Earth, Moon, and the Sun
I. Chapter Summary:
The chapter Earth, Moon, and the Sun introduces students to celestial bodies and their movements. It explains the relationship between the Earth, Moon, and the Sun, including concepts like rotation, revolution, day and night, phases of the Moon, and eclipses. Students also learn about the importance of the Sun as the primary source of energy and how the movements of these bodies affect life on Earth.
II. Key Concepts Covered:
1. Celestial Bodies
Objects present in space such as stars, planets, satellites, and asteroids.
2. The Sun
- A star and the main source of heat and light
- Center of the solar system
3. The Earth
- A planet that supports life
- Rotates on its axis → causes day and night
- Revolves around the Sun → causes seasons
4. The Moon
- Natural satellite of Earth
- Does not produce its own light
- Reflects sunlight
5. Rotation of Earth
Spinning of Earth on its axis (takes 24 hours).
6. Revolution of Earth
Movement of Earth around the Sun (takes 365 days).
7. Phases of the Moon
Different shapes of the Moon seen from Earth due to changing positions.
8. Eclipses
- Solar Eclipse: Moon comes between Earth and Sun
- Lunar Eclipse: Earth comes between Sun and Moon
III. Important Questions:
(A) MCQs (1 Mark):
- The Sun is a:
(a) Planet
(b) Star ✅
(c) Satellite
(d) Asteroid - The Earth takes how much time to complete one rotation?
(a) 12 hours
(b) 24 hours ✅
(c) 30 days
(d) 365 days - The Moon shines because it:
(a) Produces light
(b) Reflects sunlight ✅
(c) Has fire
(d) Has electricity - A solar eclipse occurs when:
(a) Earth is between Sun and Moon
(b) Moon is between Earth and Sun ✅
(c) Sun is between Earth and Moon
(d) None of these
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):
- What are celestial bodies? Give examples.
- Define rotation and revolution.
- Why does the Moon not have its own light?
- What causes day and night?
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):
- Explain the movements of Earth and their effects.
- Describe the phases of the Moon.
- Explain solar and lunar eclipses with diagrams.
- Discuss the importance of the Sun for life on Earth.
(D) HOTS Questions:
- Why do we see only one side of the Moon from Earth?
- How would life on Earth be affected if there were no Sun?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:
- Rotation: Earth spins on its axis → Day & Night
- Revolution: Earth moves around Sun → Seasons
- Moon Phases: Due to relative positions of Earth, Moon, and Sun
Example:
When one side of Earth faces the Sun, it experiences day, while the opposite side experiences night.
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026):
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026):
| Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
|---|---|---|
| Earth, Moon, and the Sun | 6–8 Marks | MCQs, Short Answer, Diagram-based, Long Answer |
Note: This is an estimate. Actual marks distribution may vary.
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):
1 Mark:
- What is the natural satellite of Earth? (2019)
2/3 Marks:
- Define rotation of Earth. (2020)
- Why does the Moon shine? (2021)
5 Marks:
- Explain solar and lunar eclipses. (2022)
VIII. Real-World Application Examples:
- Day and night cycle helps regulate daily activities.
- Seasons affect agriculture and climate.
- Lunar phases help in calendars.
- Solar energy is used for electricity (solar panels).
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success:
Time Management:
- Allocate time for diagrams and concepts.
- Revise regularly.
Exam Preparation:
- Practice diagrams of eclipses and Moon phases.
- Learn definitions clearly.
Stress Management:
- Stay relaxed and confident.
- Take proper rest.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration:
- Science Stream: Astronomy, Astrophysics, Space Science
- Commerce Stream: Space business, satellite management
- Arts Stream: Geography, Space studies
Entrance Exams (Basic Awareness):
- JEE (Engineering)
- ISRO exams
- IISER aptitude test
XI. Important Notes:
- Refer to NCERT textbook for accuracy.
- Practice diagrams regularly.
- Focus on understanding concepts.
- Revise frequently.
- Follow CBSE updates from official website.


