Solar and Lunar Eclipses

Front

How long does it take for Earth to orbit the sun?

Back

365.25 days

Front

How long does it take the moon to orbit the Earth?

Back

27 days

Front

What is the sun's atmosphere called?

Back

Corona

Front

What can you see if you are in the path of totality during a solar eclipse?

Back

A total solar eclipse

Front

Why will the moon not fully cover the sun during a solar eclipse in the future?

Back

Because the moon is slowly drifting away from Earth.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun's light.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the moon.

Front

What is the difference between a total and partial solar eclipse?

Back

In a total solar eclipse, the sun is completely covered by the moon; in a partial solar eclipse, only part of the sun is obscured.

Front

What is the umbra?

Back

The umbra is the darkest part of a shadow during an eclipse, where the light source is completely blocked.

Front

What is the penumbra?

Back

The penumbra is the lighter part of a shadow during an eclipse, where the light source is only partially blocked.