Total Solar Eclipse

For a solar eclipse to occur, what has to happen?

• The sun must be directly between Earth and the moon.

• The moon must be directly between Earth and the Sun.

Answer explanation

For a solar eclipse to occur, the moon must be directly between Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight. The first option is incorrect as it describes a lunar eclipse, where the Earth is between the Sun and the moon.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

During a solar eclipse...

• The sun is blocked

• The Earth is blocked

Answer explanation

During a solar eclipse, the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun's light. Therefore, the correct answer is 'The sun is blocked'.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Solar eclipses occur during which Moon phase?

• New Moon

• Waning Crescent

• Waxing Crescent

• Waning Gibbous

Answer explanation

Solar eclipses occur when the Moon is directly between the Earth and the Sun, which happens during the New Moon phase. This alignment allows the Moon to block the Sun's light, creating an eclipse.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

True or False: You must wear your eclipse goggles at all times except during totality due to safety reasons.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. You must wear eclipse goggles at all times except during totality to protect your eyes from harmful solar radiation. During totality, it is safe to remove them briefly.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Staring at the Sun will not cause permanent damage to your eyes.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False. Staring at the Sun can cause permanent damage to your eyes, including solar retinopathy, due to intense light and UV radiation. It is crucial to protect your eyes from direct sunlight.

The closest star to the Earth. A huge ball of gas.

• planet

• solar system

• sun

• moon

Answer explanation

The closest star to Earth is the Sun, which is a massive ball of gas primarily composed of hydrogen and helium. It provides light and heat, distinguishing it from planets, moons, and other celestial bodies.

You would see a partial solar eclipse if you were within the Moon’s penumbra.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon's penumbra reaches the Earth, allowing observers within this shadow to see a portion of the Sun obscured by the Moon.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

What is the darkest inner part of the shadow cone called, where a total eclipse can be viewed.

• Total

• Umbra

Answer explanation

The darkest inner part of the shadow cone during an eclipse is called the 'umbra'. It is where a total eclipse can be viewed, as the light from the sun is completely blocked by the moon.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1