What is Second Inversion?

Second inversion is a chord position in which the fifth of the chord is the lowest note instead of the root. In this arrangement, the notes of the chord are reordered so that the fifth appears in the bass, while the root and third are placed above it. Although the notes remain the same, changing the lowest pitch slightly alters the chord’s overall sound and harmonic function.

For example, a C major chord contains the notes C, E, and G. In root position, C is the lowest note. In first inversion, E becomes the lowest note. In second inversion, G becomes the lowest note, with C and E placed above it. This arrangement may be written as C/G, indicating a C major chord with G in the bass.

Second inversion chords are often used to create smooth bass movement or to support specific harmonic patterns in music. They commonly appear in passing chords, cadential patterns, and accompaniment figures. While less stable than root position chords, second inversion chords help add variety and motion to chord progressions.