GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

Detailed explanation-1: -A dichotomous key is an important scientific tool, used to identify different organisms, based the organism’s observable traits. Dichotomous keys consist of a series of statements with two choices in each step that will lead users to the correct identification.

Detailed explanation-2: -A dichotomous key is a written set of choices that leads to the name of an organism. Scientists use these to identify unknown organisms. Consider the following animals. They are all related, but each is a separate species.

Detailed explanation-3: -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. They continue in this way until reaching an endpoint, the name of an organism.

Detailed explanation-4: -For example, in tree identification, a dichotomous key might ask whether the tree has leaves or needles. The key then directs the user down one list of questions if the tree has leaves, and a different question list if it has needles.