AP Music Theory Flashcards: Interval Inversion and Compound Intervals
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
In what two contexts can you identify interval inversions and compound intervals?
These intervals can be identified in both performed music (aural) and notated music (visual).
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In what two contexts can you identify interval inversions and compound intervals?
These intervals can be identified in both performed music (aural) and notated music (visual).
What is the resulting interval when an interval and its inversion are added together?
The sum of an interval and its inversion is a perfect octave.
Describe the specific action taken to find an interval's inversion.
To find an interval's inversion, the lower note is moved up by one octave, becoming the higher note.
What is the relationship between a simple interval, an octave, and a compound interval?
A compound interval is the result of adding an octave to its corresponding simple interval.
How do you create a compound interval from a simple interval?
To create a compound interval, you add an octave to a simple interval.
What is a compound interval?
A compound interval is a larger interval created by adding an octave to a simple interval.
What is an interval's inversion?
An interval's inversion is determined by transferring the lower note up an octave.
What are simple intervals?
Simple intervals are intervals whose sizes are smaller than or equal to an octave.
How does size distinguish a simple interval from a compound interval?
A simple interval is an octave or smaller, whereas a compound interval is larger than an octave.
What is the relationship between an interval and its inversion?
An interval combined with its inversion equals a perfect octave.