The *dominant triad* is a [[major triad]] built on scale degree $\hat{5}$ in a [[major scale|major]] or [[minor scales|minor]] key and typically functions as [[dominant harmony]].
**Example 1.** Dominant triad in major.
![[example dominant triad in major.png]]
In minor keys, a triad built on scale degree $\hat{5}$ using unraised $\hat{7}$ yields the [[minor triad]] $\mathrm{v}$; therefore, scale degree $\hat{7}$ must be raised to produce a $\mathrm{V}$.
**Example 2.** Dominant triad in minor.
![[example dominant triad in minor.png]]