TCAP Science Practice

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 from reaching the Earth.

Front

What positions are the sun, moon, and Earth during a solar eclipse?

Back

The sun, the moon, and Earth are in a straight line, with the moon positioned between the sun and Earth.

Front

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse happens when the moon blocks the sun, while a lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the moon.

Front

What is the term for the path the moon takes around the Earth?

Back

The moon's orbit.

Front

How long does it take for the moon to complete one orbit around the Earth?

Back

About 27.3 days.

Front

What is the term for the position of the sun, moon, and Earth during a lunar eclipse?

Back

The Earth is between the sun and the moon.

Front

What is the effect of the moon's gravity on Earth?

Back

The moon's gravity causes tides in Earth's oceans.

Front

What is a total solar eclipse?

Back

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely covers the sun, as seen from Earth.

Front

What is a partial solar eclipse?

Back

A partial solar eclipse occurs when only a part of the sun is obscured by the moon.

Front

What is the umbra in a solar eclipse?

Back

The umbra is the darkest part of the shadow cast by the moon during a solar eclipse.