What is a whole tone scale?

A whole tone scale is a musical scale consisting entirely of whole steps, meaning each note is separated by a whole tone (or whole step). This creates a six-note scale without any half steps, resulting in a symmetrical and distinctive sound. For example, starting from C, a whole tone scale would include the notes C, D, E, F♯, G♯, and A♯. The uniformity of the intervals gives the scale a dreamy, ethereal quality, often used in impressionistic music.