When the verb set means to put something down or to place an item on a surface, it takes a direct object (direct receiver of the action).
- Renate set the nachos on the card table.
However, set does not take a direct object in such expressions as the sun sets and liquids set.
- The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
- The construction crew had to wait until the concrete set.
The verb sit rarely takes a direct object, so it needs a preposition such as on, in or beside.
- The squirrel sits on the branch, teasing the cat.
Sit does, however, take a direct object in such phrases as sit an exam or this car sits four passengers.
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