Quercus alba is commonly known as which tree?

Quercus alba is commonly known as which tree?

• A. Oak
• B. Maple
• C. Cypress
• D. Birch

Answer: (A)

Quercus alba belongs to the group of trees known as oaks, because Quercus is the genus that contains all oak species. The species epithet alba identifies the white oak in particular, a well-known type of oak. In practical terms, recognizing that this scientific name places the tree in the oak family helps you choose the broad common name that fits: Oak. The other options refer to different genera entirely—maples, cypresses, and birches—so they aren’t correct.

Quercus alba belongs to the group of trees known as oaks, because Quercus is the genus that contains all oak species. The species epithet alba identifies the white oak in particular, a well-known type of oak. In practical terms, recognizing that this scientific name places the tree in the oak family helps you choose the broad common name that fits: Oak. The other options refer to different genera entirely—maples, cypresses, and birches—so they aren’t correct.