Timothy uses a written dichotomous key of Paleozoic fossils to identify the type of organism a fossilized shell found on a walking trail came from. What will he most likely find as he gets closer to identifying the shell?

A. The dichotomous key will be simple and easy to follow.
B. The dichotomous key will have arrows to help him follow along.
C. The dichotomous key will have more general characteristics.
D. The dichotomous key will have more specific characteristics.

Timothy will encounter more specific characteristics as he uses the dichotomous key, which refines the identification from general categories to precise details. This structured approach helps in the accurate classification of fossils. Therefore, he is likely to find increasingly specific characteristics as he follows the key.

Explanation:

Understanding Dichotomous Keys

A dichotomous key is a crucial tool in biology for identifying organisms based on their characteristics. It typically starts with more general characteristics and becomes progressively more specific as the user narrows down the possibilities.

As Timothy uses the written dichotomous key to identify the fossilized shell, he will NOT find the key to be simple and easy to follow since these keys often require detailed knowledge and attention. Instead, he will find that the key guides him through a series of decisions that become increasingly specific as he gets closer to identifying the organism. The purpose of this structure in a dichotomous key is to ensure that the decision-making process efficiently narrows down potential organisms until he can make a confident identification.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the more specific characteristics will help Timothy pinpoint the exact organism the shell belongs to.

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