Question

Why are you are less likely to see a total solar eclipse than a total lunar eclipse?

New-moon phases occur less often than full-moon phases.

Only people on the daytime side of Earth can see a solar eclipse.

The moon’s umbra only covers a small area on Earth’s surface.

The moon’s shadow covers all of Earth during a solar eclipse.

Answer 1

New-moon phases occur less often than full-moon phases, meaning that the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth needed for a solar eclipse happens less frequently. Additionally, the moon's umbra only covers a small area on Earth's surface during a solar eclipse compared to the moon's shadow during a lunar eclipse, making it less likely for any given location to fall within the path of totality. Finally, not everyone on Earth can see a solar eclipse, as it only occurs during the daytime and is only visible from certain parts of the world.