Understanding Solar Eclipses

What causes a solar eclipse?

• The Sun and Moon switch places in the sky.

• The Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon.

• The Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight.

• The Sun moves behind the Earth.

Why do the Sun and Moon appear the same size in the sky?

• The Sun is much larger but also much farther away than the Moon.

• The Moon is much larger than previously believed.

• The Sun is much closer to Earth than the Moon.

• The Sun and Moon are actually the same size.

What prevents a solar eclipse from happening every month?

• The Moon's orbit around the Earth is tilted.

• The Earth's orbit around the Sun is perfectly circular.

• The Sun moves too quickly.

• The Moon is too far from the Earth.

What is the umbra?

• The outer part of the Sun's atmosphere.

• The smaller, darker shadow where a total eclipse is visible.

• The path of totality on Earth.

• The larger, lighter shadow cast by the Moon.

What is the path of totality?

• The orbit of Earth around the Sun.

• The path the Moon takes around the Earth.

• The trajectory of the Sun's movement in the sky during an eclipse.

• The area on Earth where a total eclipse can be observed.

Which type of eclipse occurs when the Moon appears too small to cover the Sun completely?

• Hybrid eclipse

• Annular eclipse

• Partial eclipse

• Total eclipse

How can one safely view a solar eclipse?

• Using certified eclipse-watching glasses.

• Viewing the Sun's reflection in water.

• Using a telescope without any filters.

• Looking at the Sun directly with the naked eye.

What phenomenon appears just before totality during a solar eclipse?

• The Red Moon

• The Solar Halo

• The Corona

• Bailey's Beads

What behavior might animals exhibit during a total solar eclipse?

• They become more active.

• They go to sleep.

• They may alter their behavior, like songbirds stopping their singing.

• They will look at the Sun.

Why won't we always be able to see total solar eclipses?

• The Sun is getting smaller.

• The Moon is moving away from Earth each year.

• The Earth is moving closer to the Sun.

• The Moon is getting smaller.