(6) Cuneiform (kyoo-NE-i-form) cartilages (paired). Cuneiform cartilages
are shaped like rods. These cartilages connect the epiglottis to the arytenoid cartilages.
b. Voice Cords. The mucous membrane of the larynx contains two pairs of
folds: the superior folds (false vocal cords) and the inferior folds (true vocal cords).
(1) Superior folds (false vocal cords). If these folds are brought together,
they function in holding the breath against pressure in the thoracic cavity. Humans hold
their breath when they push against something heavy or pick up a heavy object.
(2) Inferior folds (true vocal cords). The movement of air across these vocal
cords produces sounds. Tension on the vocal cords controls pitch. Men usually have
thicker and longer vocal folds. This causes the vocal folds to vibrate more slowly giving
males a lower range of pitch than females.
Figure 1-6. The larynx.