Here's why:
* Short vowel sounds: In English, short vowel sounds are typically pronounced quickly and with a closed mouth. The vowel sound in "tan" is a short "a" sound, similar to the "a" in "cat" or "man."
* Long vowel sounds: Long vowel sounds are pronounced more openly and with a longer duration. For example, the "a" in "take" or "name" is a long vowel sound.
Let me know if you have any other questions about vowel sounds!