Which term refers to the seventh scale degree that leads back to the tonic?

• A. Tonic
• B. Supertonic
• C. Leading tone
• D. Submediant

Answer: (C)

The leading tone is the seventh scale degree that pulls toward the tonic because it sits a half step below it, creating a strong urge to resolve upward to the tonic. In a major key like C major, the seventh degree is B, which tends to move up to C, producing a decisive sense of resolution and supporting cadences such as V–I. Note that in natural minor the seventh is often a flat degree (subtonic) unless raised in harmonic or melodic minor to become a leading tone, which is what gives the strongest pull to the tonic. The other terms name different scale degrees: tonic is the first degree, supertonic is the second, and submediant is the sixth.