What happens to a child's larynx during puberty?

• A. Remains the same size
• B. Grows to full size, drops, and vocal cords lengthen and thicken substantially
• C. Becomes permanently higher in pitch
• D. Becomes smaller and tighter

Answer: (B)

During puberty, the larynx undergoes significant growth driven by hormones. It enlarges to its adult size, descends lower in the neck, and the vocal cords lengthen and thicken. These changes increase the vocal fold mass and slow the rate of vibration, producing a deeper, richer voice. The depth of the change is especially noticeable in boys, where the larynx becomes more prominent as it drops and the cords grow thicker. This combination—growing to full size, dropping, and thickening vocal cords—best explains why the voice becomes deeper rather than higher.