Which IPA symbol represents the voiced alveolar plosive?

• A. /t/
• B. /g/
• C. /d/
• D. /b/

Answer: (C)

A voiced alveolar plosive is produced with the tongue tip at the alveolar ridge, creating a complete closure that is released, while the vocal cords vibrate throughout the process. In IPA, that combination of place, manner, and voicing is represented by /d/.

This sound contrasts with /t/, which is the same alveolar stop in place and manner but is voiceless, meaning the vocal cords do not vibrate during the closure or release. It also contrasts with /g/, which has the same voicing and manner but is articulated at the velar place of articulation (back of the tongue against the soft palate). And /b/ is a voiced bilabial stop, produced with both lips, not at the alveolar ridge.

So the symbol for the voiced alveolar plosive is /d/.