In which phase of the moon during which an eclipse occurs?a)New moonb)...
Explanation:
The correct answer is option 'A' - New moon.
Phases of the Moon:
The Moon goes through different phases as it orbits around the Earth. These phases are the result of the changing positions of the Sun, Earth, and Moon. The Moon's phases include the following:
1. New Moon: During a new moon, the side of the Moon facing the Earth is not visible because it is in shadow. The Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, so the sunlight is illuminating the side of the Moon facing away from us.
2. Crescent: After the new moon, a small sliver of the Moon becomes visible. This phase is called a crescent moon. During this phase, only a small portion of the Moon is illuminated.
3. Quarter Moon: As the Moon continues its orbit around the Earth, it reaches the quarter moon phase. During this phase, half of the Moon is illuminated, and half is in shadow.
4. Full Moon: The full moon occurs when the Moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the Sun. This means that the side of the Moon facing the Earth is fully illuminated and appears as a complete circle.
Eclipse:
An eclipse occurs when the Earth, Moon, and Sun align in a specific way. There are two types of eclipses:
1. Solar Eclipse: A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on the Earth. This can only happen during a new moon when the Moon is in front of the Sun.
2. Lunar Eclipse: A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to fall on the Moon. This can only happen during a full moon when the Moon is directly opposite the Sun.
Conclusion:
Since a solar eclipse can only occur during a new moon phase when the Moon is in front of the Sun, the correct answer is option 'A' - New moon. This alignment allows the Moon to block the Sun's light and create a shadow on Earth during a solar eclipse.
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