In addition to derived characteristics, DNA and protein sequence analyses are performed in order to construct trees that show relationships. In these diagrams, called cladograms, the organisms lie at points called nodes. The branches on the diagram are known as a clades and are representative of more closely related organisms. Each clade consists of a common ancestral population and its descendants. Nodes at the base of a clade correspond to hypothetical ancestors. Two descendants that split from the same node or ancestor are known as sister groups. These groups are more closely related than any other. The base of the cladogram itself is known as the root and it represents the start of the lineage. The basic parts of a cladogram are shown in the figures that follow. Finally, the cladogram is read somewhat like a family tree or timeline with the older organisms at the base of the tree. The new species formed from the process of speciation are found at the endpoints on the branches. The closer the organisms are on the branches, the more closely related the species are believed to be.