Pronunciation: [nˈat͡ʃəɹə͡l skˈe͡ɪl] (IPA) 
The correct spelling for the term "natural scale" is /ˈnætʃrəl skeɪl/. The first sound of "natural" is /ˈnætʃrəl/, with stressed "a" as in "cat" and a "ch" sound. The second part, "scale," is pronounced /skeɪl/ with a "k" sound and an "ay" sound, as in "day." The natural scale is a musical term that refers to a sequence of notes in ascending order without any alteration in pitch, also known as a major scale.
Natural scale refers to a mathematical or numerical ratio that occurs frequently in the natural world. It is a fundamental concept in various branches of science and mathematics, especially in fields such as physics, biology, and ecology. Often denoted as phi (Φ) or the golden ratio, the natural scale represents a perfectly balanced and aesthetically pleasing proportion.
In mathematics, the natural scale is derived from the sequence of Fibonacci numbers, where each number in the sequence is the sum of the two preceding numbers (e.g., 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, and so on). The ratio between any two consecutive Fibonacci numbers approaches the golden ratio, which is approximately 1.6180339887. This ratio is believed to be visually appealing and appears abundantly in nature, architecture, and art.
For instance, the growth patterns of many plants and animals follow the natural scale. The arrangement of leaves on a stem, the structure of pinecones, the shape of seashells, and the spiral patterns of sunflowers and hurricanes all exhibit the golden ratio. This intrinsic proportion can also be observed in certain proportions of the human body, including the length of the forearm to the hand, the ratio of the height to the width of the face, and the positioning of facial features.
The application of natural scale extends beyond aesthetics. It is utilized in various fields, such as design, architecture, engineering, and genetics. By understanding and incorporating the concept of natural scale, scientists and designers can achieve visually harmonious and efficient outcomes, often reflecting the inherent beauty and balance found in nature.
In music, a scale written without sharps or flats.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The etymology of the phrase "natural scale" can be understood by breaking down the individual words.
1. "Natural" : The term "natural" derives from the Latin word "naturālis", which is taken from "natura" meaning "essential qualities, innate disposition, or nature". It refers to something that exists or occurs in nature, without any artificial or human intervention.
2. "Scale" : The word "scale" comes from the Old French term "escale" and the Latin word "scala", both of which mean "ladder" or "staircase". It was later used to describe a series of musical tones or pitches arranged in ascending or descending order.
When combined, the phrase "natural scale" refers to a musical scale that is composed of natural, non-altered tones without any sharps or flats.
