What are the differences between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?
Verified Answer
Cause: A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon.
Visibility: A solar eclipse is visible only from a limited area on Earth where the Moon’s shadow falls. A lunar eclipse can be seen from any place on the night side of Earth and therefore is visible to a much larger area.
When it occurs: A solar eclipse happens at new moon; a lunar eclipse happens at full moon.
Appearance: During a total solar eclipse the Sun is briefly hidden; during a lunar eclipse the Moon may appear dark or reddish as it moves into Earth's shadow.