Which gender is most likely associated with a fundamental frequency of 230Hz created by the 3rd harmonic of 690Hz?

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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!

A fundamental frequency of 230 Hz is typically associated with a woman's voice. In speech science, fundamental frequency refers to the lowest frequency of a periodic waveform and its harmonics are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency.

For adult male voices, the average fundamental frequency usually ranges from about 85 Hz to 180 Hz, while adult females typically have a range between 165 Hz and 255 Hz. The 3rd harmonic in this context would be calculated as the fundamental frequency multiplied by three, which in your question corresponds to 690 Hz. Since 230 Hz falls comfortably within the typical range for female voices, it suggests that the voice being described is more likely associated with women.

The classification of a child's voice would also not match well here, as children's voices would generally exhibit even higher fundamental frequencies compared to adult females. Thus, the choice of "woman" is the most accurate representation when relating fundamental frequencies to gender voice characteristics.