Eclipses: Lunar vs. Solar Eclipse Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding the differences and characteristics of lunar and solar eclipses.

What celestial bodies cause lunar and solar eclipses?

The moon, Earth, and Sun.

What is the definition of a lunar eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the moon.

What does the word 'lunar' mean?

Moon.

What is the definition of a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon is between the Earth and the Sun.

What does the word 'solar' mean?

Sun.

Name the three types of lunar eclipses.

Partial, total, and penumbral.

Why doesn’t a lunar eclipse happen every month?

Because the moon’s orbit is tilted 5 degrees.

What is the larger shadow cast by the Earth during a lunar eclipse called?

Penumbral.

What is the smaller, darker shadow cast by the Earth during a lunar eclipse called?

Umbra.

What types of solar eclipses are there?

Partial, Total, Prenumbral, Hybrid.

Why isn’t there a solar eclipse every month?

Because the moon’s orbit is tilted 5 degrees.

How often does a total solar eclipse occur?

Every 18 months to 2-3 years.

Approximately how long does a solar eclipse last?

A few minutes.

What characterizes a lunar eclipse?

It occurs when Earth is between the Sun and the moon.

What characterizes a solar eclipse?

It occurs when the moon is between the Earth and the Sun.

Can you look at a lunar eclipse without special glasses?

Yes, you can look at a lunar eclipse without damaging your eyes.

Can you look at a solar eclipse without special glasses?

No, you cannot look at a solar eclipse without special glasses.

How long does a lunar eclipse last?

About 30 minutes to over 1 hour.

How long does a solar eclipse last?

About 3 minutes.

During which phase of the moon does a lunar eclipse occur?

During a full moon.

During which phase of the moon does a solar eclipse occur?

During a new moon.