Aerodynamic parameters of ejectives and pulmonic stops

This paper presents preliminary results of an aerodynamic study of ejective, aspirated and unaspirated stops. Specifically, peak oral pressure, peak oral flow, area of flow and the interaction of each of these with place of articulation were examined. Differences between ejectives and voiceless stops were found in oral pressure (with ejectives having double or triple the value for pulmonic stops), oral airflow and area of flow (with ejectives showing a small and short peak of flow compared to aspirated stops). The rate of oral pressure build-up (slope) varied considerably in ejectives reflecting the less regular raising movement of the larynx. Concerning the effect of place of articulation, oral pressure was higher in velars than anterior places of articulation in ejectives but not in pulmonic stops. Oral airflow tended to be higher in alveolar stops than labials and velars in all stop categories.