The morning sun is not as hot as the afternoon sun, because

The morning sun is not as hot as the afternoon sun primarily because, in the morning, the sun’s rays have to travel a greater distance through the Earth’s atmosphere before reaching the surface. This longer path results in increased scattering and absorption of solar radiation by air molecules and particles, reducing the intensity of sunlight. Consequently, less solar energy reaches the Earth’s surface during the morning hours, leading to cooler temperatures compared to the afternoon. The Earth’s position relative to the sun remains relatively constant throughout the day, so it being further away in the morning (option [C]) is not a significant factor in temperature variation. Neither do the sun’s rays move slower (option [A]) nor is the sun inherently cooler in the morning (option [B]). Therefore, option [D] accurately explains why the morning sun is not as hot as the afternoon sun.