* Perspective: Our brains are wired to perceive objects as larger when they are closer. When the sun is low on the horizon, we see it through more of the Earth's atmosphere, which creates the illusion that it's bigger. This is because the atmosphere acts like a lens, bending the sunlight and making it appear larger and flatter.
* Comparison: When the sun is low in the sky, we often have more visual reference points like trees, buildings, and the horizon. This makes the sun seem larger in comparison. When it's high overhead, there's less for our brains to compare it to.
The Sun's Size Remains Constant:
The sun's actual size remains constant throughout the day. The apparent change in size is a trick of our perception, not a real change in the sun's physical dimensions.
Let me know if you'd like more detail on the effects of the atmosphere on sunlight!
