Question 9 — The Moon is much - Questions at the end of the chapter - Chapter 12 Class 7 - Earth, Moon, and the Sun (Curiosity)

Last updated at June 24, 2026 by

Q 9
Question

The Moon is much smaller than the Sun, yet it can block the Sun completely from our view during a total solar eclipse. Why is it possible?

The close Moon appearing as big as the far Sun.
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Answer
The Moon is much closer, so its apparent size matches the Sun's.

Explanation

  • Apparent size depends on actual size and distance.
  • The Moon is smaller but much closer to us than the Sun.
  • So the Moon and the Sun look about the same size.
  • This lets the Moon fully cover the Sun.
Being close makes the small Moon look as big as the far Sun.
← Back to concept: 12.3.1 Solar eclipse
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