Here's a problem to solve: Mercury, the planet nearest to the Sun, has extreme surface temperatures, ranging from 465°C in sunlight to -180°C in darkness. Why is there such a large range of temperatures on Mercury?

Among the 4 following options, which is the correct answer?

- A: The planet is too small to hold heat.
 
- B: The planet is heated on only one side.
 
- C: The planet reflects heat from its dark side.
 
- D: The planet lacks an atmosphere to hold heat.
 