Explain the concept of third inversion in relation to triads.

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Explain the concept of third inversion in relation to triads.

In music theory, a triad is a three-note chord consisting of a root, a third, and a fifth. Triads can be inverted by rearranging the order of the notes, resulting in different chord voicings. The concept of inversion refers to the placement of the triad's notes in relation to the bass note.

Third inversion is a specific type of triad inversion where the fifth of the triad is placed in the bass position. To understand third inversion, let's consider a C major triad (C-E-G) as an example.

In its root position, the C major triad has the root note (C) as the lowest note. When we invert the triad to its first inversion, we take the third (E) and place it in the bass position, resulting in the chord E-G-C. This inversion is called the first inversion because the third of the triad is in the bass.

Continuing with the inversions, the second inversion occurs when we take the fifth (G) and place it in the bass position. Therefore, the second inversion of the C major triad is G-C-E.

Finally, the third inversion is achieved by taking the fifth (G) and placing it in the bass position once again. However, since we have already used the fifth in the second inversion, we need to double another note. In this case, we double the root note (C), resulting in the chord C-E-G-C. This is the third inversion of the C major triad.

It is important to note that the third inversion is not commonly used in traditional harmony due to its unstable and dissonant sound. However, it can be utilized in certain musical contexts to create tension or for specific harmonic effects.

In summary, the concept of third inversion in relation to triads involves placing the fifth of the triad in the bass position while doubling another note, typically the root. This inversion results in a unique chord voicing that is less commonly used in traditional harmony.