Solar Eclipse Quiz

What is a total solar eclipse?

• When the Sun moves behind the Earth, blocking the Moon's light

• When the Moon travels in front of the Sun while orbiting closer to Earth

• When the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon

• When the Moon's shadow is cast on the Sun

How often do total solar eclipses occur on average?

• Every 5-10 years

• Every 1-2 years

• Every 6 months

• Every 10-15 years

What is the path of totality during a total solar eclipse?

• The area on the Earth's surface where the partial shadow of the Moon falls

• The area on the Earth's surface where the full shadow of the Moon falls

• The path the Moon takes around the Earth

• The trajectory of the Sun during the eclipse

What is the solar corona?

• The outer layer of the Earth's atmosphere illuminated during an eclipse

• The ring of fire that appears around the Moon during a lunar eclipse

• The visible surface of the Sun during a solar eclipse

• The ring of light, known as the solar corona, that remains visible around the edges of the Moon during a total solar eclipse

When is the next total solar eclipse visible in North America after April 8, 2024?

• 2025

• 2026

• 2034

• Not until 2044

What occurs when the New Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun?

• A lunar eclipse

• A partial solar eclipse

• A total solar eclipse

• The Sun becomes larger

During a total solar eclipse, what is the name of the Moon's shadow that completely obscures the Sun?

• Penumbra

• Umbra

• Corona

• Halo

What are the three celestial bodies that must be perfectly lined up in the same plane for a total solar eclipse to occur?

• Sun, Moon, and Mars

• Sun, Earth, and Jupiter

• Sun, Moon, and Earth

• Sun, Earth, and Venus

When is the next total solar eclipse visible in North America after April 8, 2024?

• May 11, 2024

• August 21, 2027

• May 11, 2044

• March 7, 2070

What is the name of the phenomenon when only a portion of the Sun's light is blocked and the outer region where partial blocking occurs?

• Umbra

• Corona

• Penumbra

• Halo