Study Guide for Eclipse Quiz

What is an eclipse?

The view of the sun or moon will be blocked for a period of time.

What happens during a lunar eclipse?

The moon’s view of the sun is blocked by the earth.

What occurs during a solar eclipse?

The moon blocks the earth’s view of the sun.

What is a satellite?

Any object that orbits around another object.

What is the definition of a partial solar eclipse?

The moon blocks part of the sun from view.

What is a total lunar eclipse?

When the moon moves into the inner part of earth’s shadow, called the umbra.

What can be seen during a total solar eclipse?

The corona, the outermost part of the sun’s atmosphere.

What is the umbra?

The dark, inner part of the moon’s shadow where the sun is completely blocked from view.

What is a penumbra?

The lighter, outer shadow where the sun is partially blocked from view.

What is the path of totality?

The strip of land on earth where the moon’s umbra falls.

What defines an annular solar eclipse?

The moon appears too small to completely block the sun, forming a bright ring around the moon.

What factors limit the number of eclipses we see each year?

The tilt of the moon’s orbit around earth.

How often do total solar eclipses occur?

Roughly every 18 months.

What happens during a lunar eclipse?

The moon passes through earth’s shadow.

What color can the moon appear during a lunar eclipse?

Red/orange.

What distinguishes a solar eclipse from a lunar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs during the daytime, while a lunar eclipse occurs at night.

Why can lunar eclipses be viewed without eye protection?

They safely occur when the moon passes through earth’s shadow.

What is a supermoon?

When the full moon is at its closest point in its orbit around earth, appearing larger and brighter.

How frequently can a total lunar eclipse be seen from a given location on Earth?

On average, every 2.5 years.

What is the most visible type of eclipse for a larger audience?

A lunar eclipse, as it can be seen by more of the earth.