Understanding Solar Eclipses

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

When the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth

Front

What is the umbra?

Back

The dark inner shadow during an eclipse

Front

Why don't solar eclipses occur every month? Options: The Earth's orbit is perfectly circular, The Sun's orbit is elliptical, The Moon's orbit is tilted relative to the ecliptic plane, The Moon is always in the Earth's shadow

Back

The Moon's orbit is tilted relative to the ecliptic plane

Front

What is the path of totality?

Back

The path traced by the umbra

Front

What is an annular solar eclipse?

Back

When a ring of sunlight is visible around the Moon

Front

What causes a hybrid solar eclipse?

Back

The Earth's surface curves away from the umbra

Front

What is the penumbra?

Back

The lighter outer shadow during an eclipse

Front

During which phase of the Moon do solar eclipses occur?

Back

New Moon

Front

What is the antumbra?

Back

The part of the shadow beyond the umbra

Front

What is a partial solar eclipse?

Back

When the Moon partially covers the Sun