Final answer:
The Major and Minor scales are the most commonly used scales in Western music, known for their distinctive moods, while the Chromatic scale serves a crucial role in various musical techniques.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most commonly used scales in Western music are the Major scale and the Minor scale. These two scales form the basis of a vast majority of Western musical compositions. The Major scale is known for its bright and happy sound, whereas the Minor scale typically conveys a sadder or more complex emotion. The Chromatic scale is also used in Western music and consists of all twelve pitches in an octave, each a half step apart. While not as commonly the basis for compositions as the Major or Minor scales, the Chromatic scale is integral for modulations, embellishments, and advanced musical techniques. The Whole-tone scale, which divides the octave into six whole steps, is less commonly used but still appears in some modern and impressionistic compositions to create a dreamy and ambiguous soundscape.