Final answer:
When objects are seen underwater through a mask, they appear larger and closer due to refraction.
Step-by-step explanation:
When objects are seen underwater through a mask, they appear larger and closer. This is because of the phenomenon of refraction, where the light rays coming from the object bend as they pass through the water and enter the air. The bending of the light rays causes the object to appear closer than it actually is, and the refraction also affects the size of the image.