Question

With respect to the periodicity or aperiodicity of sound sources, vowel sounds in English almost always have a(n) __________________________ source, while consonant sounds usually have a(n) ______________________ source.

a) aperiodic, complex periodic
b) complex periodic, simple periodic
c) complex periodic, aperiodic
d) transient aperiodic, continuous aperiodic
e) simple periodic, complex aperiodic

Answer 1

Vowel sounds in English are produced with a complex periodic sound source, and consonants are generally produced with an aperiodic sound source, making the answer 'c) complex periodic, aperiodic'.

Step-by-step explanation:

With respect to the periodicity or aperiodicity of sound sources, vowel sounds in English almost always have a complex periodic source, while consonant sounds usually have an aperiodic source. The correct answer is c) complex periodic, aperiodic. Vowel sounds are produced with a relatively open vocal tract, allowing the sound to resonate and produce a clear and steady tone—which is the definition of a complex periodic sound. On the other hand, consonants result from a constriction or closure in the vocal tract that disrupts the airflow and creates noise-like sounds, which are aperiodic in nature.