If we are to write two notes a 2nd apart, we need to use 2 consecutive letters of the alphabet (such as AtoB or EtoF) or GtoA (note names repeat after G)
The smallest 2nds are then B-C and E-F, being both 1/2 steps apart. And they’re minor 2nds.
Now if we use flats and sharps we can make those 2nds even smaller and they will still be 2nds
So B#-C and B-Cb are 2nds and there notes are cero steps apart (B# is enharmonic for C, and Cb is enharmonic for B).
Now if we use both alterations at the same time we have:
B#-Cb which are -1 half step apart. (minus 1 half step , that’s a negative number!)
C-flat to B-sharp is still a half step, not a negative half step. This is a question of symantics, and can be argued either way, but for those in music who are interested in SOUND, this is a half step. What about the fact that you can’t have a diminished unison? All the other intervals can be diminished except that one. Diminish it and you get a half step!
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