Which term defines a voiced sound produced with no closure or restriction to the air flow?

Which term defines a voiced sound produced with no closure or restriction to the air flow?

• A. Vowel
• B. Consonant
• C. Plosive
• D. Fricative

Answer: (A)

Voicing with an open vocal tract defines a vowel. Vowels are produced with no closure or narrowing of the airflow in the vocal tract, so air flows freely from the lungs through the mouth while the vocal cords vibrate to provide voice. This open configuration is what makes vowels distinct from consonants, which involve some degree of constriction. A plosive, for example, requires a complete closure and then a burst of air when it’s released, while a fricative involves a narrow gap that creates turbulent air. So the term that fits the description is vowel.

Voicing with an open vocal tract defines a vowel. Vowels are produced with no closure or narrowing of the airflow in the vocal tract, so air flows freely from the lungs through the mouth while the vocal cords vibrate to provide voice. This open configuration is what makes vowels distinct from consonants, which involve some degree of constriction. A plosive, for example, requires a complete closure and then a burst of air when it’s released, while a fricative involves a narrow gap that creates turbulent air. So the term that fits the description is vowel.