Small comma: Difference between revisions

== Definition ==

A '''comma''' is a small interval that occurs in [[just intonation]], between two intervals which are close in pitch. Commas are always greater than 1 (0 [[cent]]s) and not a power such as a square or cube of any other interval, and generally in a [[Harmonic Limit|low prime limit]]. The word is often used in reference to [[Regular Temperaments|regular tempering]] when the comma is ''[[tempering_out|tempered out]]'', which is to say reduced to a unison, by the temperament, thereby equating the intervals separated by that comma. For example the Syntonic or Didymus comma of 81/80, which occurs between [[10/9]] and [[9/8]], as well as [[81/64]] and [[5/4]], is tempered out by [[Meantone|meantone temperament]]. Commas are usually written as ratios, but they can also be written as monzos. The following lists mostly give both forms, as well as the size in [[cent]]s. The [[Color notation|color name]] refers to both the comma and the temperament created when it is tempered out, except for 3-limit commas, which create edos.

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