Stemmelæberne

Stemmelæberne, also known as vocal folds or vocal cords, are a pair of muscular flaps located within the larynx, or voice box. These structures are crucial for producing sound in humans and many other vertebrates. When air is exhaled from the lungs, it passes through the glottis, the opening between the stemmelæberne. The airflow causes the stemmelæberne to vibrate, generating sound waves.

The pitch of the voice is primarily determined by the tension and length of the stemmelæberne. When they are stretched thin and tight, they vibrate more rapidly, producing a higher-pitched sound. Conversely, when they are relaxed and shorter, the vibration frequency decreases, resulting in a lower pitch. The muscles within the larynx control these adjustments, allowing for a wide range of vocalizations.

The quality of the voice, or timbre, is influenced by the shape and condition of the stemmelæberne, as well as how they interact with the resonant cavities of the throat, mouth, and nasal passages. Conditions such as inflammation, polyps, or nodules can affect the smooth vibration of the stemmelæberne, leading to hoarseness or voice loss. Proper vocal hygiene involves protecting the stemmelæberne from overuse and strain.