Which of these scales is categorized as a minor scale?

The Natural Minor Scale is categorized as a minor scale because it follows a specific pattern of whole and half steps that defines its sound and characteristics. The structure of the Natural Minor Scale is based on the following interval sequence: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step. This results in a scale that has a darker, more melancholic sound compared to major scales.

The Natural Minor Scale has a tonic, which establishes the tonal center of the scale, and relative minor keys that relate to major keys, showing its importance in tonality. The characteristics of the scale are essential for creating music that conveys emotions associated with the minor tonality.

In contrast, the Major Scale features a different structure that gives it a brighter, more uplifting sound, and the Chromatic Scale consists of all twelve pitches within the octave, not adhering to the whole and half step pattern typical of minor or major scales. The Blues Scale, while having some qualities of minor scales, is characterized by additional notes (“blue notes”) that alter its traditional minor sound structure. Thus, the Natural Minor Scale is distinctly recognized and classified as a minor scale due to its unique interval pattern and tonal properties.