Question
How are organisms classified? based on shared characteristics based on different characteristics No answer text provided. based on how they look
Answer
4.6
(309 Votes)
Brody
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
Based on shared characteristics.
Explanation
The question asks us how organisms are classified. The classification of organisms in the field of biology, more specifically taxonomy, is done according to their shared characteristics, For this, scientists follow certain ranks which includes kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. This classification is based on various shared characteristics like similar genomes, similar physical features, similar modes of reproduction, and similar ways of living which are metabolic processes. To discuss the other answer choices, classification 'based on different characteristics' is a confusing method, as it would entail more complexities and challenges in unifying diverse species under common categories or genera. Therefore, unlike shared traits or characteristics, different traits cannot be the foundations of classifying organisms. The option 'No answer text provided' is irrelevant and falls out of the parameter. Classification 'based on how they look' alone might not suffice as it is only one of the attributes considered while classification. Overall, Biological classification emphasizes similarities not just in terms of physical appearance, but also through genetic alignments and other structural and functional attributes.