Question

Which of the following acoustic characteristics is/are applicable to the vowel /i/?

• A. Periodic waveforms
• B. Voice Onset Time (VOT)
• C. Formants
• D. Voicing

Hint:

Remember: VOT is relevant only for stops. Vowels are voiced and show clear formants and periodic waveforms.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, C, D

Step 1: Understand the nature of the vowel /i/. 
The vowel /i/ is a high front unrounded vowel. It is voiced and produced with a relatively stable vocal tract configuration. 
Step 2: Evaluate each acoustic feature. 
(A) Periodic waveforms – Yes. Vowels, being voiced, exhibit periodic patterns.
(B) Voice Onset Time (VOT) – No. VOT applies to the time lag between release and voicing in stop consonants, not vowels.
(C) Formants – Yes. Vowels are characterized by distinct resonant frequencies known as formants (especially F1 and F2).
(D) Voicing – Yes. The vowel /i/ is voiced. Conclusion: Options (A), (C), and (D) apply to /i/.