What vocal cords do?

Vocal cords, also known as vocal folds, are two bands of muscle tissue located in the larynx (voice box) that produce sound when air from the lungs passes through them. As air is expelled, the vocal cords vibrate, creating sound waves that can be modified in pitch and volume by adjusting tension and length. They play a crucial role in speech, singing, and other vocalizations. Additionally, they help protect the airway by closing during swallowing to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea.