What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, resulting in the Moon blocking the Sun's light from reaching the Earth. This alignment results in a temporary dimming of sunlight, which can be observed from specific locations on the Earth's surface. Depending on the alignment, the effect can range from a partial cover of the Sun, where only part of the Sun is obscured, to a total solar eclipse, where the Sun is completely covered by the Moon.

Understanding this phenomenon is crucial, as it highlights the precise geometric alignments necessary for a solar eclipse to occur, distinguishing it from other celestial events. For example, when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, it leads to a lunar eclipse instead. The other options refer to different types of eclipses or celestial interactions that do not describe the solar eclipse accurately. Thus, the correct definition hinges on the specific alignment of the Moon, Earth, and Sun during this event.