Which of the following is most helpful when identifying
organism using a dichotomous key?

C. Its physical structures

Explanation:

A dichotomous key is defined as a tool used to differentiate between objects and organisms. A dichotomous key consist of series of question related to the species and at the end gives the scientific name of the species.

The characteristic that is most helpful when identifying  organism using a dichotomous key is "Its physical structures". for example: if a person want to identify a tree, a dichotomous key ask about the physical structures such as if the tree has needles or leaves.

So, physical structures are most helpful while using a dichotomous key.

since the atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus, as we move to the left on the periodic table, the electrostatic pull between the nucleus and the valence electron shell decreases. as we move down a group (vertical column), the valence shell energy level gets further and further from the nucleus.