Solar And Lunar Eclipses Flashcards
Space
What is an eclipse?
An eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when one celestial body moves into the shadow of another celestial body.
What are the two main types of eclipses?
The two main types of eclipses are solar eclipses and lunar eclipses.
True or False: A solar eclipse occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon.
False
Fill in the blank: A _____ eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun.
solar
What happens during a lunar eclipse?
During a lunar eclipse, the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon.
True or False: A total solar eclipse can be seen from anywhere on Earth.
False
What is the term for the area where a total solar eclipse can be seen?
The path of totality.
Multiple Choice: Which type of eclipse can occur only during a full moon? A) Solar B) Lunar C) Both
B) Lunar
What is a partial eclipse?
A partial eclipse occurs when only a part of the celestial body is obscured.
Fill in the blank: A _____ eclipse can cause the Sun to appear as a crescent shape.
solar
What is the umbra?
The umbra is the innermost and darkest part of a shadow, where a total eclipse is observed.
True or False: Eclipses happen every month.
False
What is a penumbra?
The penumbra is the outer part of a shadow where partial eclipse is observable.
Multiple Choice: How often do solar eclipses occur? A) Every month B) About 2 to 5 times a year C) Once every few years
B) About 2 to 5 times a year
What is the difference between a total and an annular solar eclipse?
In a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun, while in an annular solar eclipse, the Moon covers the center of the Sun leaving a ring-like appearance.
Fill in the blank: A lunar eclipse can be seen from _____ when it occurs.
anywhere on the night side of the Earth
True or False: The same location on Earth can see a total solar eclipse every year.
False
What is the Saros cycle?
The Saros cycle is an eclipse cycle of approximately 18 years that can predict eclipses.
What is the significance of the Moon’s shadow during a solar eclipse?
The Moon’s shadow creates regions on Earth where the solar eclipse can be viewed.
Multiple Choice: Which type of eclipse is more common? A) Solar B) Lunar
B) Lunar
What is the maximum duration of a total solar eclipse?
The maximum duration of a total solar eclipse can be about 7 minutes and 30 seconds.
Fill in the blank: During a lunar eclipse, the Moon can sometimes appear _____ due to the Earth’s atmosphere refracting sunlight.
red
What is the name of the phenomenon where the Sun, Moon, and Earth align perfectly?
An eclipse.
True or False: Eclipses can only happen during specific seasons.
False
What is the main reason we do not have a solar eclipse every month?
The Moon’s orbit is tilted relative to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun.
