Question

According to the myoelastic-aerodynamic theory, what physical force is responsible for the closing phase of the vocal fold vibratory cycle?

Accepted Answer

The physical force responsible for the closing phase of the vocal fold vibratory cycle is the Bernoulli effect, which acts in combination with the elastic recoil of the vocal fold tissues. The Bernoulli effect is a principle of fluid dynamics stating that as the speed of a moving gas or liquid increases, the pressure it exerts decreases. As air from the lungs is forced through the glottis—the narrow opening between the vocal folds—it must accelerate to pass through the constriction. This increased velocity creates a localized area of negative pressure between the vocal folds, which acts like a suction force that pulls them toward each other. Think of this like two pieces of paper held close together; when you blow air between them, they are pulled together rather than pushed apart because the fast-moving air lowers the pressure in the gap. Simultaneously, the vocal folds possess natural elasticity, meaning they inherently want to snap back to their original, closed position once the initial opening force is reduced. Together, the suction from the Bernoulli effect and the elastic recoil of the tissue pull the vocal folds shut, effectively stopping the airflow and completing the closing phase of the cycle.

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According to the myoelastic-aerodynamic theory, what physical force is responsible for the closing phase of the vocal fold vibratory cycle?

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