When the Moon is near the horizon,it appears larger than when it is high in the sky.This effect is primarily a result of
A) the slightly dimmer appearance of the horizon Moon.
B) the scattering of the horizon Moon's light waves,which penetrate the atmosphere at an angle.
C) monocular distance cues,which make the horizon Moon seem farther away.
D) the brighter appearance of the horizon Moon.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This phenomenon is known as the Moon illusion, and it is primarily a psychological effect. When the Moon is near the horizon, objects in our line of sight (like trees or buildings) provide monocular distance cues, making the Moon seem farther away than when it is high in the sky. Our brain interprets this increased perceived distance as an increase in size, although the Moon's actual size does not change. This is not due to physical changes in the Moon's light or its actual size but rather how our brain interprets its size relative to objects on the horizon.

When the Moon Is near the Horizon,it Appears Larger Than