In which aspect do consonants differ from vowels regarding articulation?

Study for the UCF SPA3011 Speech Science Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your test!

Consonants differ from vowels primarily in terms of airflow obstruction during articulation. Unlike vowels, which are produced with an open vocal tract, consonants involve varying degrees of constriction or blockage in the oral or nasal cavities. This obstruction can take different forms such as stops, fricatives, or affricates, which all create distinct speech sounds by altering the airflow.

In contrast, vowels are typically articulated with a relatively unrestricted vocal tract, allowing for continuous airflow and creating different resonant frequencies, making them sonorous and tonal. This significant difference in the manner of articulation leads to the classification of speech sounds into these two distinct categories, with consonants being characterized by their obstruction and vowels by their openness.

The other options do highlight some features related to consonants and vowels, but they do not accurately capture the fundamental difference regarding airflow obstruction, which is central to their articulation.

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