The term "pentatonic" refers to a musical scale that consists of five notes per octave. This scale is commonly used in various musical traditions around the world, including blues, rock, and folk music. The simplicity of the pentatonic scale makes it easy to play and is often favored by beginners learning an instrument. Pentatonic scales can be categorized into two main types: the major pentatonic and the minor pentatonic. The major pentatonic scale has a bright, uplifting sound, while the minor pentatonic scale tends to evoke a more somber or reflective mood. Both scales are foundational in creating melodies and improvisations in many genres.