Understanding Solar Eclipses

What causes a solar eclipse?

• The sun and moon align on opposite sides of the Earth.

• The moon moves between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun's rays.

• The Earth moves between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow.

• The sun moves behind the Earth, causing darkness.

Why do the sun and the moon appear the same size in our sky?

• Because the sun is much closer to the Earth than the moon.

• Because the sun is 400 times wider than the moon and also 400 times farther away.

• Because the moon is much larger than previously believed.

• Because the moon is 400 times wider than the sun.

Why isn't there a solar eclipse every month?

• Because the Earth's orbit changes unpredictably.

• Because the moon's orbit is usually tilted a few degrees north or south in relation to the Earth.

• Because the sun moves too quickly.

• Because the moon is not always new.

What is the umbra?

• The smaller, darker shadow cast by the moon.

• A type of solar eclipse.

• The path of totality across the Earth.

• The larger, lighter shadow cast by the moon.

What is seen by people within the penumbral shadow during a solar eclipse?

• A total eclipse.

• A hybrid eclipse.

• A partial eclipse.

• An annular eclipse.

What happens during an annular eclipse?

• The moon completely covers the sun's surface.

• The moon appears too small to fully cover the sun.

• The moon's shadow completely misses the Earth.

• The Earth's shadow falls on the moon.

What is a hybrid eclipse?

• An eclipse where the moon's position results in both total and annular eclipses along its path.

• An eclipse that occurs twice in one month.

• An eclipse that changes from total to partial depending on the viewer's location.

• A total eclipse that can be seen from anywhere on Earth.

How often does a total solar eclipse happen somewhere on Earth?

• Every century

• Every decade

• Every year or two

• Every month

What is the safest way to view a solar eclipse?

• Through a telescope

• Using certified eclipse-watching glasses

• Via a camera lens

• With the naked eye

What phenomenon occurs just before totality in a solar eclipse?

• The penumbral shadow

• The umbral shadow

• The Diamond Ring

• Baily's beads