A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or a portion of the Sun'slight. This can only happen during a new moon when the Sun and Moon are in conjunction as seen from the Earth.
Total Solar Eclipse: When the Moon completely covers the Sun, blocking all direct sunlight, turning day into darkness for a few minutes.
Partial Solar Eclipse: When the Sun, Moon, and Earth are not exactly lined up, and the Moon only partially covers the Sun's disk.
Annular Solar Eclipse: When the Moon is too far away from the Earth to completely cover the Sun, leaving a ring of sunlight visible around the edges of the Moon.
Path of Totality
The path of totality is the narrow track where the total solar eclipse is visible. It's important to be within this path to experience the total eclipse, as outside this area only a partial eclipse is visible.
Safety Precautions
It's crucial to take precautions when observing a solar eclipse to avoid eye damage. Special solar viewing glasses or handheld solar viewers must be used to safely view the eclipse.
From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.