Solar Eclipse GCSE Physics Challenge

Solar eclipse GCSE Physics challenge

Can you get 100%? Use the 12 August 2026 solar eclipse to test your understanding of satellites, orbital motion, shadows and safe solar viewing in one original eight-mark question.

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Question

8 marks

Answer all four parts. Use complete physics explanations where asked.

1(a)

On 12 August 2026, the Moon passed between the Sun and Earth. The Moon is described as a natural satellite of Earth. State what is meant by a natural satellite.

[1 mark]

1(b)

The Moon travels around Earth at an approximately constant speed. Explain why the Moon is accelerating even though its speed is approximately constant. Explain how gravity keeps the Moon in orbit.

[3 marks]

1(c)

Figure 1 shows the shadow regions formed during a solar eclipse. Observer A is inside the Moon's umbra. Observer B, in the UK, is inside the Moon's penumbra. Explain why Observer A sees a total eclipse but Observer B sees only a partial eclipse.

Sun, Moon and Earth aligned, with Observer A in the narrow central umbra and Observer B in the wider penumbra

[2 marks]

1(d)

At maximum eclipse in the UK, approximately 90-96% of the Sun was covered. Explain why looking directly at the Sun was still dangerous even though most of it was hidden.

[2 marks]

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