Multiple Choice
Which best describes a dichotomous key?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Introduction to Taxonomy
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When using a dichotomous key to identify organisms, which of the following best describes the process?
A
You answer a series of paired, contrasting statements to narrow down the identity of the organism.
B
You use genetic sequencing to directly determine the organism's classification.
C
You observe the organism's behavior in its natural habitat to determine its taxonomic group.
D
You compare the organism to a list of all known species and select the closest match.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the purpose of a dichotomous key: It is a tool used to identify organisms based on a series of paired, contrasting statements or characteristics.
Recognize that the process involves answering these paired statements step by step, each choice narrowing down the possibilities until the organism is identified.
Clarify that genetic sequencing is not part of using a dichotomous key; it is a separate method used for classification based on DNA analysis.
Note that observing an organism's behavior in its natural habitat is not the primary method for using a dichotomous key, as the key focuses on physical or observable traits rather than behavior.
Explain that comparing the organism to a list of all known species is not how a dichotomous key works; instead, the key systematically guides you through choices to identify the organism.
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