The cadence formed by V to I or V to i is called which term?

• A. Authentic cadence
• B. Perfect authentic cadence
• C. Plagal cadence
• D. Deceptive cadence

Answer: (A)

Cadences that end on the tonic from the dominant establish a clear sense of closure. When the dominant chord moves to the tonic, whether the tonic is major or minor (I or i), that overall pattern is called an authentic cadence. The broad term covers both V–I and V–i progressions, notating a strong, conclusive feel to the phrase. A perfect authentic cadence is the stricter case where both chords are in root position and the tonic appears in the soprano, but the question’s V to I or V to i fits the general authentic cadence without requiring those extra conditions. The other options describe different endings: IV to I for a plagal cadence, and V to vi for a deceptive cadence.