Which functional chord symbol corresponds to the dominant note of a major key?

In music theory, the dominant chord plays a pivotal role in establishing tonality and tension before resolving to the tonic chord. The dominant note of a major key is the fifth scale degree, which is represented as the V chord. In the context of functional harmony, this V chord is built on the fifth note of the scale and is essential for creating the dominant function, which often leads back to the tonic (I) in musical resolutions.

The dominant chord can also be elaborated as a dominant seventh chord (V7), which adds the seventh scale degree to the triad, further enhancing the tension and color of the harmony. However, the primary identification of the dominant function in a major key is the V chord itself, not necessarily its seventh variant.

Understanding these roles helps musicians and composers create effective resolutions and emotional impacts in music, as the dominant chord is critically important for driving the harmonic progression.