Solar Eclipses Flashcards
What is a solar eclipse?
It happens when the Moon blocks some or all of the Sun’s light
When does a solar eclipse happen?
Only during a New Moon when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are in a line.
What are the three types of solar eclipses?
Total, partial, and annular.
What happens in a total solar eclipse?
The Moon completely covers the Sun, making it briefly dark and showing the Sun’s outer layer.
What happens in a partial solar eclipse?
The Moon covers only part of the Sun, so it looks like a bite is taken out.
What happens in an annular solar eclipse?
The Moon is too far from Earth to cover the Sun completely, so you see a “ring of fire” around the Moon.
What is the path of totality?
The area on Earth where you can see a total solar eclipse.
How long does a solar eclipse last?
A total solar eclipse lasts a few minutes. Annular and partial ones can last several hours.
How should you safely watch a solar eclipse?
Use special eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector. Regular sunglasses are not safe.
Why are solar eclipses important for science?
They help scientists study the Sun and test scientific theories.
How have people historically viewed solar eclipses?
They were once seen as signs or supernatural events, but now they are celebrated.
Why are solar eclipses exciting in New Zealand?
They are special events that show the Sun, Moon, and Earth working together, and people look forward to them.
