Question

Which speech organ helps to differentiate between oral and nasal sounds?

• A. Lips
• B. Soft palate (Velum)
• C. Epiglottis
• D. Vocal cords

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Soft palate (Velum)

The soft palate (velum) is the speech organ that helps differentiate between oral and nasal sounds.

How the Soft Palate Controls Oral and Nasal Sounds:

• Oral Sounds: When the soft palate is raised, it blocks the nasal cavity, directing airflow only through the mouth (e.g., /p, t, k, s, b, d/).

• Nasal Sounds: When the soft palate is lowered, air passes through the nasal cavity, producing nasal consonants like /m, n, ŋ/.