Why do clams come out of their shells?

Question

Why do clams come out of their shells?

Answer 1

Only one will - to another clam shell, to mate

Or, less importantly, for food, maybe

Answer 2

if the clam is in relatively calm water you will see a trail in the sand from were it will drag itself through the sand or muck looking for food or a possible mate,to answer your question it is to move from point A to point B

Answer 3

when you pop them into boiling water to make some chowder