Here's a breakdown:
* Consonant chords sound pleasing and harmonious. They create a sense of stability and resolution. Examples include major and minor triads, as well as some inversions of these chords.
* Dissonant chords sound jarring and unstable. They create a sense of tension and anticipation, often leading to resolution in a consonant chord. Examples include augmented, diminished, and some seventh chords.
The difference between consonant and dissonant chords comes down to the intervals they contain. Consonant chords are made up of intervals that are considered harmonious (like perfect fifths and major thirds), while dissonant chords include intervals that sound more clashing (like minor seconds and major sevenths).
It's important to note that the perception of dissonance can be influenced by context, culture, and even individual preference. What sounds dissonant in one context might sound consonant in another.