Sounds which are produced when the passage of air is either completely or partially obstructed are ________.

• A. Vowel sounds
• B. Glides
• C. Consonant sounds
• D. Nasal sounds

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how consonants are produced by constricting the airflow in the vocal tract. Vowels are made with an open passage, so there isn’t obstruction. Consonants, on the other hand, involve some degree of constriction or closure in the mouth, which can be a complete stop or just a partial narrowing. Stops like the momentary blockage at the lips or tongue create a complete obstruction, while fricatives and other consonants create a partial, turbulent flow through a narrowed space. Nasal sounds involve blocking the oral passage and directing air through the nasal cavity, still fitting the idea of obstruction in the vocal tract. Glides (approximants) have a relatively open constriction, but they’re categorized as consonants because they still involve a narrower passage than vowels.

So, sounds produced when the passage of air is completely or partially obstructed are consonant sounds.