Here's why:
* Short vowel sounds are often found in single-syllable words or in words where the first vowel is followed by a consonant.
* Long vowel sounds are often found in words with two vowels, where the first vowel is followed by a consonant and the second vowel is silent.
Examples:
* Short vowel: cat, bed, hot, cup
* Long vowel: cake, beat, hope, cute
However, there are exceptions to this rule, and some words with two vowels might have a long sound for the first vowel.
It's always best to check the pronunciation of a word to be sure!