Solar Eclipse Quiz

What is the main reason the moon can cover the sun during a solar eclipse?

• The Earth is closer to the sun than the moon.

• The sun is smaller than the moon.

• The moon is closer to the Earth than the sun.

• The moon is larger than the sun.

What is the umbra during a solar eclipse?

• The shadow cast by the sun.

• The darkest part of the moon's shadow.

• The shadow cast by the Earth.

• The lightest part of the moon's shadow.

What phenomenon occurs when the rugged surface of the moon allows sunlight to pass through during an eclipse?

• Sunspots

• Lunar craters

• Bailey's beads

• Solar flares

How often do total solar eclipses occur?

• Every 18 months

• Every 10 years

• Every 5 years

• Every month

Why don't solar eclipses happen every month?

• The moon is too small.

• The Earth rotates too quickly.

• The sun is too far away.

• The moon's orbit is tilted relative to Earth's orbit.

What is an annular eclipse?

• When the moon completely covers the sun.

• When the sun is partially covered by the moon.

• When a ring of the sun is visible around the moon.

• When the moon is not visible at all.

What materials do you need to make a simple solar eclipse viewer?

• A glass jar and a flashlight

• A telescope and a camera

• A cereal box, foil, and paper

• Sunglasses and a mirror

What is the purpose of the pinhole in the homemade solar eclipse viewer?

• To allow light to enter and project an image

• To reflect the sun's rays

• To block out all light

• To magnify the sun's image

What should you never do when viewing a solar eclipse?

• Use a homemade viewer

• Look directly at the sun without protection

• Use a telescope

• Watch it on television

What is the safest way to view a solar eclipse?

• With a magnifying glass

• Through a telescope

• With specialized eclipse glasses

• With regular sunglasses