Chapter 15 - Music Theory

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts from Chapter 15, focusing on music theory and intervals.

Basilar Membrane

A structure in the cochlea of the inner ear that plays a crucial role in the process of hearing.

Frequency Response Curves

Graphs that represent the electrical activity (voltage spikes) from hair cells in the cochlea in response to different frequencies.

Chord

A combination of several notes played together, which can be either consonant or dissonant.

Diad

A two-note chord.

Triad

A three-note chord.

Minor Second

An interval of 1 half step, example C to C-sharp.

Major Second

An interval of 2 half steps, example C to D.

Minor Third

An interval of 3 half steps, example C to D-sharp.

Perfect Fourth

An interval of 4 half steps, example C to F.

Perfect Fifth

An interval of 7 half steps, example C to G.

Octave

An interval of 12 half steps, example C to C.

Consonance

A term used to describe harmonic intervals that are pleasing to the ear.

Dissonance

A term used to describe harmonic intervals that create tension or instability.

Major Chord

A chord consisting of a major third from the first note to the second and a minor third from the second to the third note.

Minor Chord

A chord consisting of a minor third from the first note to the second and a major third from the second to the third note.

Triad (Major)

1st to 2nd note: Major 3rd (4 half steps)

2nd to 3rd note: Minor 3rd (3 half steps)