DENDROLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -A dichotomous key breaks down identification into two mutually exclusive options at each step. To use the key, the scientist starts at the top, or beginning, and sees which of the two options apply to their organism. Based on their answer, the key directs them to a new question.

Detailed explanation-2: -When creating your dichotomous key, you need to start with the most general characteristics first, before moving to the more specific ones. So it helps to have identified the more obvious and less obvious contrasting characteristics among the specimen before creating your dichotomous key.

Detailed explanation-3: -A dichotomous key is a tool used for identifying an unknown item or organism. “Dichotomous” means, “divided into two parts.” A dichotomous key always gives two choices in each step. In each step, you must make a decision based on characteristics of the item.

Detailed explanation-4: -“Dichotomous” means “divided into two parts.” That is why dichotomous keys always give two choices in each step.