The direction of the sun affects architectural shadows in several ways. The angle of the sun's rays determines the length and position of the shadow, while the time of day affects the angle of the shadow. The direction of the sun also influences the intensity and color of the shadow. For example, shadows are longer and more blue-tinted in the morning and evening, while they are shorter and more orange-tinted at midday. Architects use this information to design buildings that can maximize natural lighting while also minimizing excessive heat gain and glare. They may also use shading devices such as overhangs, awnings, and louvers to control the amount and direction of sunlight entering a building.
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