# Explain why scientists classify living organisms into groups, and describe the binomial naming system used to identify species.

> Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0) — Topic 3 Classification and Biodiversity · Explain · 5 marks

> There are millions of different species on Earth. Scientists use a system of classification to organise living organisms into groups based on shared characteristics. Each species is given a unique two-part scientific name.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Classification allows scientists to identify / organise organisms into groups based on shared characteristics
2. Classification makes it easier for scientists to communicate information about organisms / study them
3. The binomial naming system gives each species a two-part Latin (scientific) name
4. The first part of the name is the genus and the second part is the species
5. The binomial name is the same worldwide / understood by scientists in all countries, avoiding confusion caused by common names varying between languages or regions

## Key terms

- [binomial naming system](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/binomial-naming-system)
- [species](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/species)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-scientists-classify-living-organisms-1b175149) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.