What occurs when the Earth is positioned between the Sun and the Moon?

When the Earth is positioned between the Sun and the Moon, a lunar eclipse occurs, which is distinct from a full moon. A lunar eclipse specifically occurs when the Earth casts a shadow on the Moon, blocking the sunlight that usually reflects off the Moon's surface. This alignment leads to the Moon appearing red or darkened during the eclipse due to the Earth's atmosphere filtering and refracting sunlight.

In this situation, a full moon is also occurring, as it is the phase of the Moon when it is fully illuminated by the Sun, and the Earth is in the middle of the two. However, while a full moon can occur without a lunar eclipse, the question specifically asked about the position of the Earth relative to the Sun and Moon. Thus, the correct answer reflects the phenomenon that primarily relies on this alignment, which is a lunar eclipse. Although a full moon occurs at this time, it is crucial to recognize that the event of the Moon passing into the Earth's shadow is what defines a lunar eclipse.