The major musical scale typically used as a basis for Western music is the diatonic scale, which consists of seven distinct notes. The common major scale is derived from this scale and follows a specific pattern of whole and half steps: whole, whole, half, whole, whole, whole, half. Western music often utilizes this scale, forming melodies and harmonies that are fundamental to a wide range of genres, from classical to pop. The diatonic scale's structure allows composers and musicians to create diverse musical expressions and emotional impacts.