The ability to perceive both the fundamental frequency and the harmonics of a given pitch is known as:
A) spectral pitch.
B) harmonic pitch.
C) periodicity pitch.
D) perfect pitch.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Spectral pitch refers to the perception of both the fundamental frequency and its harmonics. Option B, harmonic pitch, is not a commonly used term and can be confused with the concept of "pitch class," which refers to all pitches that are octaves apart but share the same letter name (e.g., C2, C3, C4). Option C, periodicity pitch, refers to the perception of periodicity in complex sounds and is not specific to the perception of a single pitch. Option D, perfect pitch, refers to the ability to identify or produce a specific pitch without a reference tone and is not specific to the ability to perceive harmonics.

The Ability to Perceive Both the Fundamental Frequency and the Harmonics