DENDROLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -A dichotomous key provides users with a series of statements with two choices that will eventually lead to the correct identification of the organism. To use a dichotomous key, one must be able to make accurate observations and follow directions carefully.

Detailed explanation-2: -Dichotomous keys are most commonly used to identify plant and animal species based on their characteristics. However, they can also be used to identify minerals – and, in theory, any type of object that can be identified by a known set of observed characteristics.

Detailed explanation-3: -Dichotomous is a word that means “two parts” (remember that the prefix di-means “two”). A dichotomous key uses a series of statements, descriptions, or yes or no questions grouped into pairs, which eventually lead to the correct identity of a specimen or organism.

Detailed explanation-4: -Dichotomous keys are very useful because they allow non-expert users to identify organisms by directing them to look at the known, important organisms.