In music theory, a tone is a musical sound that primarily has which characteristic?

Introduction / Context:
In basic music theory, it is important to distinguish between noise and musical sound. A tone is a specific type of musical sound used to build melodies and harmonies. This question asks which characteristic best defines a tone in music and helps learners reinforce core terminology used by musicians and music teachers.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The subject is music theory and sound properties.
- Four options describe different characteristics a sound might have, such as high frequency, definite pitch, low duration, or none of these.
- The question asks for the primary characteristic that makes a sound a tone in the musical sense.

Concept / Approach:
In music, a tone is a sound that has a regular waveform and a definite pitch. This means the listener can perceive it as a specific note higher or lower relative to others. Noise, by contrast, does not have a clear pitch because its vibrations are irregular. While tones can vary in frequency, duration, and loudness, the defining feature is that the sound possesses a stable and recognisable pitch.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify that a tone is associated with musical notes, such as those played on a piano or sung by a singer. Step 2: Recognise that these notes are distinguished by specific pitches (for example, C, D, E) that remain steady. Step 3: Examine option A, "Has high frequency". Some tones are high, some are low, so high frequency is not a universal requirement. Step 4: Examine option B, "Has definite pitch". This directly matches the requirement that a tone must be perceived as a particular note. Step 5: Examine option C, "Has low duration". Duration of a tone can be long or short, so this cannot be the defining trait. Step 6: Option D, "None of the above", is incorrect because option B is already a correct description. Step 7: Conclude that the correct characteristic is that a tone has definite pitch.

Verification / Alternative check:
A practical check is to think about tuning a musical instrument. When a musician tunes a guitar string, they adjust its tension until it produces a clear note at a specific pitch. That clear note is what is meant by a tone. If the sound were fuzzy, irregular, or without a recognisable note, it would not be considered a tone in music theory. This practical understanding supports option B as the correct choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Has high frequency: A tone can be low pitched or high pitched, so high frequency does not define all tones.
Has low duration: The duration of a tone can vary widely in music; it is not the primary defining property.
None of the above: Incorrect because having a definite pitch clearly defines a musical tone.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners assume that any musical sound must be high pitched or short to be important, but music uses both high and low tones, with both long and short durations. Confusing frequency or length of time with the concept of pitch leads to wrong answers. It is helpful to remember that pitch refers to how high or low a note sounds, and having a clear, stable pitch is what makes a sound a tone in music theory.

Final Answer:
Therefore, in music a tone is a sound that Has definite pitch.