What phenomenon occurs during a total eclipse when the moon completely covers the sun?

During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely obscures the sun, allowing observers in the path of totality to witness a few remarkable phenomena, one of which is the visibility of the sun's corona and chromosphere. The corona is the outer atmosphere of the sun, which is normally hidden by the sun's blinding light. During a total eclipse, the darkening of the sky and the absence of the sun’s bright light provides the perfect conditions for observing the corona as it appears as a halo of plasma extending outward from the sun.

Additionally, the chromosphere, which is a layer of the sun's atmosphere located just above the photosphere, can also be observed as a thin reddish glow during the moments before and after totality. This phenomenon results in a stunning visual experience, showcasing the intricate structures and dynamics of the sun that are usually obscured by its brightness.

In contrast to this, various other phenomenon described in the answer choices are not correctly associated with what occurs during a total eclipse. For example, the idea of a total blackout of the sun's rays does not fully capture the experience, as the corona remains visible. The notion of the moon casting a shadow on Mars is unrelated to the occurrence of a solar eclipse, which only affects