Sound Produced By Humans

Key Notes :

Sound Production Mechanism in Humans:

  • Humans produce sound using their vocal cords (also called vocal folds).
  • The larynx (voice box), located in the throat, houses the vocal cords.
  • When air from the lungs passes through the vocal cords, they vibrate, creating sound.

Role of the Vocal Cords:

  • The vocal cords are elastic bands of tissue that can be tightened or loosened.
  • Tightening the cords produces a higher pitch, while loosening them results in a lower pitch.
  • The frequency of vibration of the vocal cords determines the pitch of the sound.

Airflow and Sound Production:

  • Breathing out (exhalation) provides the air needed to vibrate the vocal cords.
  • The force of the airflow can affect the loudness of the sound produced.

Role of the Mouth, Tongue, and Lips:

  • After sound is produced by the vocal cords, it is modified by the mouth, tongue, and lips.
  • These parts help in articulating different sounds, which allows us to form words and speech.

Pitch and Volume Control:

  • Pitch is controlled by the tension and length of the vocal cords.
  • Volume (loudness) is determined by the force with which air is expelled from the lungs.
  • Stronger airflow results in a louder sound, while gentler airflow produces a softer sound.

How Do We Change Our Voice?:

  • By adjusting the shape of the vocal tract (mouth, throat, and nasal passages), we can change the tone of our voice.
  • People can intentionally alter their voice to speak, sing, or mimic different sounds.

Voice Quality Differences:

  • The size and shape of a person’s vocal cords affect the quality of their voice.
  • Men generally have thicker and longer vocal cords, which produce lower-pitched sounds than women and children.

Common Disorders of the Vocal Cords:

  • Hoarseness, loss of voice, and other issues can occur if the vocal cords are overused or strained.
  • Conditions like laryngitis (inflammation of the larynx) can affect sound production.

Fun Facts:

  • The average human speaks at a frequency range between 85 Hz to 255 Hz.
  • Professional singers and trained speakers can control their breathing and vocal cords to produce a wide range of sounds.

Let’s practice!