Which scale is described as the 'pure minor' in the material?

• A. Natural minor
• B. Harmonic minor
• C. Melodic minor
• D. Major scale

Answer: (A)

In music theory, the term “pure minor” refers to the natural minor scale, also known as the Aeolian form. It is the unaltered version of the minor scale, meaning it uses the natural notes without raising the sixth or seventh degrees. This gives it a distinct, somber character because the scale steps follow the natural minor pattern: whole, half, whole, whole, half, whole, whole.

For example, in A minor the natural minor is A–B–C–D–E–F–G–A. If you were to raise the seventh degree to create a leading tone for V harmony, you’d be shifting toward the harmonic minor (A–B–C–D–E–F–G#–A). If you raise both the sixth and seventh degrees when ascending, you’d be using the melodic minor scale (A–B–C–D–E–F#–G#–A), which reverts to the natural minor on the descent.