Vocal process

Vocal process is a term used in anatomy to refer to the anterior extremity of the arytenoid cartilage. It is a small, pyramid-shaped cartilage that forms part of the larynx, or voice box. The vocal process is the point of attachment for the vocal ligament and the thyroarytenoid muscle, which are essential components of the vocal apparatus.

Etymology

The term "vocal process" is derived from the Latin vocalis, meaning "voice", and processus, meaning "projection". This reflects its role in the production of sound.

Anatomy

The vocal process is located at the anterior end of the arytenoid cartilage. It projects forward and inward, towards the midline of the larynx. The vocal ligament, a band of elastic tissue, attaches to the vocal process and extends forward to the thyroid cartilage. The thyroarytenoid muscle, which is the main muscle of the vocal cord, also attaches to the vocal process.

Function

The vocal process plays a crucial role in the production of sound. When the thyroarytenoid muscle contracts, it pulls the vocal process forward, tightening the vocal ligament. This increases the tension of the vocal cords, raising the pitch of the voice. Conversely, when the muscle relaxes, the vocal process moves backward, loosening the vocal ligament and lowering the pitch.

Related Terms

• Arytenoid cartilage: A pair of small, pyramid-shaped cartilages in the larynx to which the vocal cords are attached.
• Vocal ligament: A band of elastic tissue that extends from the vocal process to the thyroid cartilage, forming the core of the vocal cord.
• Thyroarytenoid muscle: The main muscle of the vocal cord, which attaches to the vocal process and controls the tension of the vocal cords.

See Also

• Larynx
• Voice production
• Vocal cord

Vocal process Resources
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