Rory is trying to identify a tree from one of its leaves. A question on the dichotomous key that he is using asks whether the leaf has 3-5 lobes or more than 5 lobes. Rory cannot tell whether the leaf in his hand has 5 or 6 lobes. What should Rory do to continue identifying the tree?
Answer
A
Look at other leaves from the same tree, and count how many lobes they have.
B
Start over from the beginning of the dichotomous key.
C
Skip this question, since one question does not make a difference.
D
Find a different dichotomous key to use that does not ask this question.
Explanation
Rory should check other leaves from the same tree and count their lobes. Comparing several leaves can help him decide which lobe count best describes the tree, so he can follow the appropriate branch of the dichotomous key. Skipping the question or restarting would not resolve the uncertainty.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.