ASTRONOMY — Term for one body obscuring another Question: What is the correct term for the obscuring of one celestial body by another, especially when the Sun or a planetary satellite is involved?

Introduction / Context:
In observational astronomy, several similar-sounding terms describe geometry and events in the sky. Distinguishing “eclipse” from “ecliptic” and related words prevents common mix-ups during exams and public discussions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question focuses on the event of one body being hidden by another along the line of sight.
• Classical examples include solar and lunar eclipses.
• Terminology must be precise to avoid confusion with orbital planes.

Concept / Approach:
An eclipse occurs when a celestial body moves into the shadow of another or a body is obscured as seen by an observer. Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun; lunar eclipses occur when Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon. The “ecliptic” is the apparent annual path of the Sun on the celestial sphere (the plane of Earth’s orbit), not an event. “Elliptic” describes the shape of an ellipse. “Occultation” is a related term for a smaller, more distant object being hidden by a closer one (often used for stars by the Moon), but the classic term for Sun/Moon events is “eclipse.”

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the phenomenon: obscuration by alignment producing shadowing.Match to the standard term used for Sun/Moon events → eclipse.Recognize that ecliptic/elliptic are unrelated descriptors (path and shape).

Verification / Alternative check:
Textbook definitions consistently reserve “eclipse” for Sun/Moon shadow events, while “occultation” is broader and often used for stellar or planetary hideouts that are not specifically Sun/Moon eclipses.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Elliptic — refers to ellipse-related geometry, not an event.Ecliptic — the plane/path of Earth’s orbit; not a covering event.None of the above — incorrect, as “eclipse” exactly fits.Occultation — a valid astronomical event term, but the question explicitly points to Sun or planetary satellite cases commonly termed “eclipse.”

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “ecliptic” with “eclipse” due to similar spelling. Always link “eclipse” to the event of shadowing.

Final Answer:
eclipse