Vowel-Consonant Distinctions

Classification of Speech Sounds

• Speech sounds are classified into vowels and consonants primarily based on the degree of obstruction in the vocal tract during articulation.
• Vowels are produced with minimal obstruction, allowing for a free flow of air, while consonants involve greater constriction.

Articulatory Noise in Consonants

• Noise in consonant articulation is caused by the turbulence created when airflow is obstructed, leading to varying degrees of frication or plosion.

Muscular Tension in Vowels

• Muscular tension during vowel production is evenly distributed throughout the vocal tract, allowing for a smooth resonance without significant constriction.
• This results in a rich, full sound quality that is characteristic of vowel sounds.

Air Stream Force in Vowels vs. Consonants

• The force of the airstream in vowels is generally continuous and unimpeded, in contrast to consonants where the airflow is interrupted or modified by constrictions.

Articulatory Boundary Description

• The boundary between vowels and consonants is described as a gradient rather than a strict demarcation, reflecting the fluid nature of speech sound production.

Obstruction Removal Effect

• The removal of obstruction in consonants typically produces a shift to vowel-like qualities, as airflow becomes less restricted, creating a clearer sound.

Voiced vs. Voiceless Consonants

• The main difference between voiceless and voiced consonants lies in vocal cord vibration; voiced consonants involve vibration, while voiceless consonants do not.

Acoustic Boundary Criteria

• The acoustic boundary between vowels and consonants is primarily based on formant patterns, with vowels exhibiting distinct resonance characteristics compared to consonants.

Distinguishing Features in Sound Spectrum

• Vowels are distinguished from consonants by their harmonic structure; vowels have a more prominent and stable formant pattern, leading to a richer sound.

Muscle Groups in Sound Production

• Different groups of muscles are engaged during vowel and consonant production; vowels require a balanced use of intrinsic laryngeal and pharyngeal muscles, while consonants activate specific articulatory gestures for obstruction.

Test your knowledge of vowel-consonant distinctions with this quiz! Learn about the articulatory principles that classify speech sounds and understand the differences between vowels and consonants based on obstruction, muscular tension, and air stream force.