| The quality of a triad is determined by the precise arrangement of its intervals. Tertian triads can be described as a series of three notes. The first element is called the root note of the chord, the second note is called the "third" of the chord, and the last note is called the "fifth" of the chord. These are described below: |
| Chord Name | Component Intervals | Example | Chord Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major triad | major third; perfect fifth | C-E-G | C, CM, Cma, Cmaj |
| Minor triad | minor third; perfect fifth | C-E♭-G | Cm, Cmi, Cmin |
| Augmented triad | major third; augmented fifth | C-E-G♯ | C+, C+, Caug |
| Diminished triad | minor third; diminished fifth | C-E♭-G♭ | Cm(♭5), Cº, Cdim |
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