Explanation:

Timbre:
Timbre refers to the characteristic quality or tone of a sound that distinguishes it from other sounds of the same pitch and loudness. It is often described as the color or texture of a sound. Every sound produced by different sources has a unique timbre that allows us to identify and differentiate between them.

Distinguishing Musical Sounds:
When it comes to distinguishing the musical sounds produced by different singers, the characteristic of sound called timbre plays a crucial role. Here's how it helps us differentiate between singers:

1. Unique Vocal Cords:
Each individual has a unique set of vocal cords, which affects the way they produce sound. The vocal cords determine the size, shape, and tension of the vocal folds, resulting in variations in timbre. These variations are responsible for the distinct qualities in singers' voices.

2. Resonance and Harmonics:
The vocal tract, including the throat, mouth, and nasal cavity, acts as a resonating chamber for the sound produced by the vocal cords. The shape and size of the vocal tract, which vary among individuals, influence the resonant frequencies and amplify certain harmonics of the sound. This amplification creates the unique timbre of a singer's voice.

3. Articulation and Technique:
The way singers articulate and use their vocal technique also contributes to the timbre of their voices. Factors such as breath control, vocal range, vibrato, and use of vocal registers (chest voice, head voice, falsetto) shape the sound produced. These techniques and articulation choices further differentiate singers based on their timbre.

4. Musical Style and Expression:
Different singers may specialize in specific musical styles or genres, which often require different vocal techniques and expression. These style-specific techniques, along with the singer's personal interpretation and expression, influence the timbre of their voice. For example, a classical opera singer may have a different timbre compared to a pop or jazz singer.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, timbre is the characteristic of sound that allows us to distinguish between the musical sounds produced by different singers. The unique vocal cords, resonance and harmonics, articulation and technique, as well as the musical style and expression, contribute to the individual timbre of a singer's voice. By listening to these timbral variations, we can recognize and differentiate between different singers.