Which of these parameters is the major factor in determining whether a particular solar eclipse appears as a total or as an annular eclipse to an observer on the center line of the Moon's shadow?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major factor in determining whether a solar eclipse appears as a total or as an annular eclipse is the distance of the Moon from Earth. When the Moon is closer to Earth, it can completely cover the Sun, resulting in a total eclipse. When the Moon is farther away, it appears smaller in the sky and does not completely cover the Sun, leading to an annular eclipse where a ring of the Sun's surface is still visible.

Which of These Parameters Is the Major Factor in Determining