äänirihmojen

Äänirihmat, known in English as vocal folds or vocal cords, are a pair of elastic bands of muscle tissue located within the larynx, or voice box, in the throat. They are a crucial component of the human vocal apparatus, responsible for producing sound. When we speak, sing, or make other vocalizations, air is expelled from the lungs and passes through the glottis, the opening between the vocal folds. This airflow causes the vocal folds to vibrate. The frequency of these vibrations determines the pitch of the sound produced; faster vibrations result in higher pitches, while slower vibrations produce lower pitches. The tension and length of the vocal folds can be adjusted by muscles within the larynx, allowing for a wide range of vocalizations.

The structure of the vocal folds is complex, consisting of several layers, including the vocal ligament, the vocalis muscle, and various mucosal tissues. These layers work in concert to create the subtle movements required for phonation. While primarily associated with speech, the vocal folds also play a role in non-vocal functions such as breathing and protecting the airway from foreign substances. Conditions affecting the vocal folds, such as nodules, polyps, or paralysis, can significantly impact a person's voice, leading to hoarseness, breathiness, or complete loss of voice. Their health and function are therefore essential for effective communication and airway protection.