Exploring the Science Behind Total Solar Eclipses

What significant event will occur on August 21, 2017?

• A comet passing by Earth

• A total solar eclipse

• A meteor shower

• A lunar eclipse

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Which ancient civilization believed the Sun was put to shame during a solar eclipse?

• The Mayans

• The Greeks

• The Romans

• The Mesopotamians

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

During a total solar eclipse, what happens to the Moon and Sun?

• The Sun moves between the Earth and the Moon

• The Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun

• The Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon

• The Moon moves behind the Sun

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Why do the Sun and Moon appear to be the same size during a total solar eclipse?

• The Moon is much larger than the Sun

• The Sun is much closer to Earth than the Moon

• The Moon is 400 times bigger but 390 times farther away

• The Sun is 400 times bigger but 390 times farther away

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

What phase must the Moon be in to potentially cause a total solar eclipse?

• Last Quarter

• Full Moon

• First Quarter

• New Moon

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

What is the term for a solar eclipse where the Moon does not completely cover the Sun?

• Total eclipse

• Partial eclipse

• Lunar eclipse

• Annular eclipse

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Why are total solar eclipses rare to witness?

• They are only visible from the North Pole

• They only happen once every 100 years

• The Moon's shadow often falls on water

• They only occur at night

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

What will happen to the visibility of total solar eclipses in the distant future?

• They will only be visible from space

• They will be visible from all parts of Earth

• They will no longer occur

• They will become more frequent

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

What should be used to safely observe a solar eclipse?

• Regular sunglasses

• A telescope

• Specially tinted filters

• Binoculars

What is the main danger of observing a solar eclipse without proper protection?

• Temporary blindness

• Permanent eye damage

• Skin burns

• Hearing loss