Week 3 - Vowels

Question 1

The Source Filter Theory of Speech Production

Answer 1

Vocal tract = filters sound energy generated at the larynx
Resonance in the vocal tract amplifies the harmonics that match the resonance frequencies - will be stronger
Resulting peaks in amplitude correspond to vowel formants
Radiated sound spectrum is shaped in terms of amplitude profile by vocal tract resonance (filtering)

Question 2

Acoustic features - central vowels

Answer 2

closed-end tube with even cross-sectional area

- changes vocal transfer function

Question 3

Acoustic features - non-central vowels

Answer 3

tongue constrictions at different points to different degrees in the vocal tract
- changes vocal transfer function