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H6-04. Helium Voice

Purpose

To demonstrate the rise in frequency of vocal formants due to the increase in the speed of sound in a light gas.

Equipment

Tank of helium with regulator and pressure gauges.

Suggestions

Take a couple of big breaths of air first to get plenty of oxygen, then breath out completely before inhaling the helium.

Images

H6-04

Description

Snort a lungfull of helium and talk and sing normally. Your voice takes on a squeaky "Donald Duck" character due to the increase in frequency of your vocal formants.