Question

which of the following are necessary conditions for a solar eclipse to occur? select all that apply a the earth, moon, and sun must be aligned in the same plane. b the sun must be at its highest point in the sky. c the moon must be at its farthest point from earth. d the moon must pass directly between earth and the sun. e the moon must be in its new phase.

Explanation:

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon blocks the Sun's light from reaching Earth. For this to happen, the Moon must pass directly between Earth and the Sun (d). Also, the Earth - Moon - Sun alignment must be in the same plane (a) for the shadow to fall on Earth. The Moon must be in its new phase (e) as this is when the side of the Moon facing Earth is not illuminated, and it can block the Sun. The Sun's position in the sky (b) and the Moon's distance from Earth (c) are not necessary conditions for a solar eclipse to occur.

Answer:

A. The Earth, Moon, and Sun must be aligned in the same plane.
D. The Moon must pass directly between Earth and the Sun.
E. The Moon must be in its new phase.