What are the requirements for a perfect authentic cadence?

• A. Both chords in root position and the tonic note is the top note of the final chord
• B. The first chord in root position only
• C. The final chord inverted
• D. Ends on V

Answer: (A)

A perfect authentic cadence delivers a definitive sense of final resolution by moving from dominant to tonic with both chords in root position, and with the melody ending on the tonic. When the V chord resolves cleanly to I and both chords are in their root positions, the bass outlines a strong V–I motion and the top voice lands on the tonic, giving a clear, stable ending. If the final I isn’t in root position or the soprano doesn’t end on the tonic, the cadence loses that decisive, “perfect” feel and would be considered imperfect authentic or another type of cadence.