A total eclipse of the moon can only occur during which phase of the moon?
A.
new moon
B.
first quarter
C.
full moon
D.
last quarter
C. full moon
A total eclipse of the moon can only occur during the full moon phase. Therefore, the correct answer is C.
To determine which phase of the moon a total eclipse can occur, we need to understand what a total eclipse of the moon is.
A total eclipse of the moon, also known as a lunar eclipse, happens when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Moon to pass through Earth's shadow. During this phenomenon, the Moon can appear darkened or even reddish in color.
Based on this information, we can now determine which phase of the moon a total eclipse can occur:
A. New Moon: During a new moon, the Moon is positioned between the Sun and the Earth. However, since the Moon is too close to the Sun in the sky, its shadow is typically not cast on Earth. Therefore, a total eclipse of the moon cannot occur during a new moon.
B. First Quarter: During the first quarter phase, the Moon is at a 90-degree angle with respect to the Sun and the Earth. This means that the Moon is not in alignment for a total eclipse to occur. So, a total eclipse of the moon cannot occur during the first quarter.
C. Full Moon: A total eclipse of the moon can only occur during a full moon phase. This is because a full moon occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon. When the alignment is just right, the Earth's shadow can fall on the surface of the Moon, resulting in a total eclipse.
D. Last Quarter: Similar to the first quarter phase, during the last quarter phase, the Moon is at a 90-degree angle between the Sun and the Earth. This means that the alignment is not ideal for a total eclipse to happen. Hence, a total eclipse of the moon cannot occur during the last quarter.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. full moon.