i

 

 

i-How: Science - How do eclipses work

 

What is an eclipse

An eclipse is a celestial event which occurs when a celestial object, such as the Sun or the Moon, is temporarily obscured, either by passing into the shadow of another body or by having another body pass between it and the viewer.

 

Solar Eclipse - Eclipse of the Sun

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and the Earth. The Moon blocks out the Sun’s rays, resulting in a shadow forming over part of the Earth.

Solar eclipse image courtesy of science-resources.co.uk

Solar eclipse phases:

Solar Eclipse

Solar eclipse phases image courtesy of science-resources.co.uk

 

 

Lunar Eclipse - Eclipse of the Moon

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through the Earth's shadow. A lunar eclipse can only occur during a full moon.


Lunar eclipse image courtesy of science-resources.co.uk

 

 

Tags: How do eclipses work; what is an eclipse; solar eclipse; lunar eclipse

 

 

Copyright © 2012 e-How.org.uk / i-how.co. All Rights Reserved.
Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the e-How and i-How Terms and Conditions. | Design by W3layouts