A diatonic scale is a seven-note musical scale that consists of five whole steps and two half steps. The most common diatonic scale is the major scale, which follows the pattern of whole and half steps: whole, whole, half, whole, whole, whole, half. This scale forms the basis for much of Western music. In addition to the major scale, there is also the natural minor scale, which has a different pattern of whole and half steps. Diatonic scales are essential for understanding harmony and melody, as they provide the framework for constructing chords and musical compositions.