Combining Chords
If two different chords are combined, the tones present in the higher-pitched chord form new relationships with the tones found in the lower chord.

For example:

Open D chord (no thirds) plus F major chord combine to give D minor seventh chord

The root of the second chord (F), becomes the third of the first chord (D). The third (A) becomes the fifth and the fifth (C) is now the seventh of the combined chord.

These new functions fit well with the original chord as they form primary relations with the root of the chord.

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