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Multiple Choice
Why are most sex-linked traits found on the X chromosome?
A
The Y chromosome is responsible for determining male sex and does not carry any genes.
B
The X chromosome is inherited only from the mother, making it more likely to carry traits.
C
Sex-linked traits are equally distributed between the X and Y chromosomes.
D
The X chromosome is larger and contains more genes than the Y chromosome.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of sex-linked traits: These are traits that are associated with genes located on the sex chromosomes, which are the X and Y chromosomes in humans.
Recognize the difference in size and gene content between the X and Y chromosomes: The X chromosome is significantly larger and contains more genes compared to the Y chromosome.
Consider the inheritance pattern: Females have two X chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). This means that any gene on the X chromosome can be inherited by both males and females, but genes on the Y chromosome are only inherited by males.
Analyze why most sex-linked traits are found on the X chromosome: Since the X chromosome has more genes, it is more likely to carry traits that are sex-linked compared to the Y chromosome, which has fewer genes.
Conclude that the statement 'The X chromosome is larger and contains more genes than the Y chromosome' is correct because it explains why most sex-linked traits are found on the X chromosome.