Chapter 2: Eclipses Flashcards
1
Q
What is a solar eclipse?
A
When the sun is obscured by the moon and the moon’s shadow falls on earth.
2
Q
Where does the moon have to be for a total solar eclipse to occur?
A
At perigee (it’s closest point to earth in its orbit)
3
Q
Where does the moon have to be for an annular solar eclipse to occur?
A
At apogee (the farthest point from earth in its orbit)
4
Q
What phase of the moon has to be occurring for a solar eclipse to occur?
A
A new moon because this is when the moon is between the sun and earth.
5
Q
What phase of the moon has to be occurring for a lunar eclipse to take place?
A
A full moon.
6
Q
What is the alignment of the sun, earth and moon called?
A
Syzygy
