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
Skip this question, since one question does not make a difference.
C
Start over from the beginning of the dichotomous key.
D
Find a different dichotomous key to use that does not ask this question.
Explanation
Rory should examine several other leaves from the same tree and count their lobes. Leaves elsewhere on the tree may make the number easier to determine and help him choose the correct branch of the dichotomous key. Skipping the question or starting over would not resolve the uncertainty.
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