What characterizes a whole tone scale?

A whole tone scale is characterized by a sequence of six consecutive whole steps within the range of an octave. This unique structure means that each note in the scale is separated by a whole step from the next, resulting in a scale that creates a distinctive sound that is often described as dreamy or ethereal. Because a whole tone scale consists entirely of whole steps, it does not include half steps, which are essential in other types of scales like the major or minor scales.

The scale comprises a total of six notes before it reaches the octave, allowing for a consistent interval pattern that contributes to its unique identity. This characteristic also means that there are only two whole tone scales possible within the twelve-tone system, creating limited but interesting harmonic options.

The other choices do not accurately define the whole tone scale. It does not include all twelve notes of an octave, nor does it contain varying intervals, since all intervals in the whole tone scale are uniformly whole steps. Additionally, it does not utilize only half steps in its construction, as that would describe a chromatic scale instead.