Which scale is formed by raising the minor 6th a half step?

The scale formed by raising the minor 6th a half step is indeed the Harmonic Minor scale. This scale is created by altering the natural minor scale by raising the 7th degree, which is a key characteristic of the harmonic minor. In terms of the structure of the scale, the minor 6th is the 6th degree of the natural minor scale, and raising it a half step gives you a unique interval placement that distinguishes the harmonic minor from the natural and melodic minors.

In practice, this alteration allows for a leading tone to resolve upwards to the tonic, which is particularly useful in harmonic progression, creating stronger resolutions in compositions. The raised 6th degree introduces a distinctive sound, making the harmonic minor scale prominent in various musical styles, especially in classical and romantic music.