The use of the whole-tone scale undermines any sense of a harmonic center in Debussy's "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun," contributing to the piece's impressionistic and ambiguous tonal qualities. Option a is the correct choice.
What undermines any sense of a harmonic center in Debussy's "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" is the use of the whole-tone scale.
Debussy was known for his innovative harmonic language, and in this piece, he extensively employs the whole-tone scale. The whole-tone scale lacks a tonal center, as it is symmetrical and consists entirely of whole steps.
Its use contributes to the impressionistic and dreamlike quality of the composition, creating a sense of ambiguity and fluidity in tonal relationships. Unlike the diatonic and minor scales, which establish clear tonal centers, the whole-tone scale defies traditional harmonic expectations, aligning with Debussy's departure from conventional tonal structures and his pursuit of new and evocative harmonic possibilities.
Option a is the correct choice.