In C major, a G major triad is built on scale degree 5. What is its harmonic function?
ATonic — it provides stability and rest
BSubdominant — it moves away from home
CDominant — it creates tension that pulls toward tonic
DIts function cannot be determined from scale degree alone
The chord built on scale degree 5 (V) functions as the dominant. Its pull toward the tonic (I) comes from containing the leading tone (scale degree 7), which has a strong melodic tendency to resolve up to scale degree 1. The dominant–tonic (V–I) relationship is the central tension-resolution engine in tonal music.
Question 2 True / False
A major triad usually functions as the tonic chord in a given key.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: False
Harmonic function is determined by the chord's role in the key, not by its quality (major, minor, etc.). In C major, both the I (C major) and the V (G major) and the IV (F major) chords are major triads, yet each has a distinct function. The same chord quality can serve any function depending on context.
Question 3 Short Answer
Why does the dominant chord (V) create a stronger pull toward tonic than the subdominant (IV)?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: The dominant chord contains the leading tone (scale degree 7), which has a strong tendency to resolve upward by a half step to the tonic (scale degree 1). The subdominant chord does not contain this tendency tone, so its pull toward tonic is weaker and less directed.
The leading tone's half-step resolution is the sharpest melodic tension in tonal music. When the bass also moves down a fifth (V to I), the combination of melodic and harmonic motion makes the V–I cadence the most conclusive gesture in Western tonal harmony.