Question

How does a dichotomous key help you identify unknown specimens based on their traits

Answer 1

A dichotomous key helps you identify unknown specimens based on their traits because there are only two options available per trait. Selecting one from the two options (usually contrasting characteristics) from each step leads to smaller and smaller groups until the option is reduced to single and unique trait of an organism.

Considering you need to identify an organism. So, on the top of they key is animal with options: (a) with red blood cells and (b) no red blood cells. The option you will select is no red blood cells and under option b, you’re given two choices again: (a) hard bodies and (b) soft bodies. You’ll select soft bodies, then two options again are given: (a) with shell and (b) without shell. The option you’ll select would be without shell, and so on.

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

First lets define what a dichotomous key is.

A dichotomous key is a chart of different physical traits that a species has.

It starts from basic traits and branches out into yes or no questions that make more and more detailed descriptions of the species you are trying to define.

So.. A dichotomous key helps you identify the correct species easily with a couple of yes or no questions.

Good Luck! :)