How helium affects people's voice

You’ve probably seen it in movies or in videos on the internet – people inhaling helium and experiencing a sudden shift in the way their voice sounds. It’s a phenomenon that never fails to bring laughter and amusement. But have you ever wondered why helium has such a unique effect on our vocal cords? In this article, we will explore the science behind how helium affects people’s voice.

Firstly, let’s understand what helium is. Helium is a chemical element with the symbol He and the atomic number 2. It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is lighter than air. Due to its low density, helium is commonly used to fill balloons to make them float. But what happens when we inhale helium?

When you inhale helium, it enters your respiratory system and travels to your vocal cords. Now, the average human voice is produced by the movement of vocal cords, which are located in the larynx or voice box. These vocal cords vibrate when air passes through them, creating different sounds based on factors such as tension, length, and thickness.

Here’s where helium comes into play. Helium is much lighter than air, so when it enters your lungs, it starts to change the way sound waves travel through your vocal cords. Normally, sound waves move slower in denser substances, such as air. But when you inhale helium, the density of the gas is much lower than that of air, causing the sound waves to travel faster.

As a result of this rapid movement, the frequency of your voice increases while the wavelength decreases. This alteration in sound wave behavior leads to the famous high-pitched, squeaky voice associated with helium inhalation. Essentially, your voice becomes “chipmunk-like” due to the change in the resonant properties of your vocal cords caused by the helium gas.

Interestingly, helium affects both the fundamental frequency and the formant frequencies of your voice. The fundamental frequency is the basic pitch of your voice, while formant frequencies are responsible for the resonance and distinctiveness of different vowel sounds.

When inhaling helium, the fundamental frequency of your voice rises, resulting in a higher pitch. Additionally, the formant frequencies are also affected, causing a distortion in the resonance of vowel sounds. This distortion is why words spoken on helium often sound distorted and comical.

While inhaling helium is generally considered harmless in small amounts, it is crucial to note that excessive inhalation can be dangerous. Breathing in too much helium can lead to oxygen deprivation, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness. It is always advisable to ensure proper ventilation, breathe normal air after having fun with helium, and be cautious of its potential risks.

In conclusion, the effect of helium on people’s voice stems from its low density, which alters the way sound waves travel through the vocal cords. The result is a high-pitched, squeaky voice that we find amusing. Though it is an entertaining phenomenon, responsible use of helium is essential to ensure our safety and well-being. So, next time you encounter a helium-filled balloon, take a moment to appreciate the fascinating science behind the giggles it brings.