Quand vs Lorsque

In lesson 9.9 we are introduced to some new conjunctions, one of which is 'lorsque'. Can anyone clarify if/how the usage of 'lorsque' differs from that of 'quand', as they have the same meaning (when). Thank you!

The web site About,com French Language has an article covering this under the title Quand, Lorsque, Lors de, Pendant Confusing French pairs

Thanks Jim. i looked at About.com but found the article a bit confusing - too many grammar terms for me! Some more googling did bring up this though: Quand can be used in a question; lorsque cannot. Quand : used in general Lorsque : when referring to the past, or when referring to a particular moment (Lorsque tu es parti en voyage,...; Lorsque vous obtiendrez une promotion, ...) I don't know how correct this is, if anyone has any other feedback on it that would be great. Thanks

Bonjour! Sister Luna, these two terms translate as 'when' and are in many instances interchangeable but the most apparent difference between 'lorsque' and 'quand' is that 'lorsque' is more formal. However, an instances in which they are not interchangeable is when we want to ask a question. For example, 'When are you going to the shop?' 'Quand est-ce que tu vas au magasin?' This is correct! however, you cannot say, 'Lorsque tu vas au magasin?' There are a few more differences, but these are the main ones to keep in mind. Continuez ainsi! Keep up the good work! - Marie-Claire

Thanks Marie-Claire, thats very helpful.