Which cavity is primarily involved when nasal sounds are produced?

The nasal cavity is primarily involved in the production of nasal sounds, such as /m/, /n/, and /ŋ/. When these sounds are articulated, the airflow is directed through the nasal cavity while the oral cavity is blocked by the closure of the lips or the tongue against the roof of the mouth. This unique configuration allows the sound waves to resonate in the nasal passages, which is essential for creating the distinct quality of nasal sounds.

During the production of nasal consonants, the velum (or soft palate) is lowered, permitting air to escape through the nose, which distinguishes them from other nasal-uninvolved phonetic sounds. The specific resonating characteristics of the nasal cavity contribute significantly to the richness and timbre of the voice during nasal sound production, making it an integral part of this phonetic process.

The other cavities mentioned, such as the pharyngeal, oral, and laryngeal cavities, do not play the same role in the resonance and airflow dynamics that are specifically required for nasal sounds.