Binomial system for naming organisms
Practice Flashcards
Flip to reveal answersDefine binomial nomenclature.
Track your progress — Sign up free to save your progress and get smart review reminders based on spaced repetition.
All 12 Flashcards — Binomial system for naming organisms
Sign up free to track progress and get spaced-repetition review schedules.
Question
Define binomial nomenclature.
Answer
The system of naming each species with a **two-part Latin name**: **genus + species**.
Question
In a binomial name, which word is the genus?
Answer
The **first** word (it is capitalised), e.g. **Panthera** in **Panthera leo**.
Question
In a binomial name, which word is the species?
Answer
The **second** word (it is lower-case); it only has meaning alongside its genus.
Question
Define genus.
Answer
A group of **closely related species** — the first word of a scientific name.
Question
How is a binomial name written in print?
Answer
In **italics**, with the genus **capitalised** and the species **lower-case**.
Question
How do you write a binomial name by hand?
Answer
**Underline** each word (since you can't italicise by hand); genus still capitalised, species lower-case.
Question
Who created binomial nomenclature?
Answer
**Carl Linnaeus**, in the 1700s.
Question
What is the morphological species concept?
Answer
Linnaeus's idea of grouping organisms into species by their **shared physical features / appearance**.
Question
Two species share the same genus. What does that tell you?
Answer
They are **more closely related** than two species placed in **different genera**.
Question
Felis catus and Felis silvestris — how related are they?
Answer
**Closely related** — they share the genus **Felis** (the same first word).
Question
Why can't the species word be used on its own?
Answer
It has **no meaning without its genus** — different genera can reuse the same species word.
Question
Why do scientists use binomial names instead of common names?
Answer
Common names vary between languages and regions; a binomial name is **one agreed name** for each species worldwide.
Read the notes
Full study notes for Binomial system for naming organisms
Topic 1.6 hub
Diversity of organisms
More from Topic 1.6
All flashcards in this topic
Biology exam skills
Paper structures & tips
Track your progress with spaced repetition
Sign up free — Aimnova tells you exactly which cards to review and when, so you remember everything before your IB exam.
Start Free