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Ask A Scientist©
Biology Archive
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X and Y chromosomes
Question: Why do X and Y chromosomes determine a persons sex?
jbraciak
Answer: Human females contain two X chromosomes, and males contain one X and one Y
chromosome. In the absence of a Y chromosome, a human fetus will develop as a female.
This indicates that a gene or genes on the Y chromosome determines "maleness". Several
genes that are required for male development have been located on the Y chromosome, but
as far as I know, the "master" gene has not yet been identified. -Brian
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Argonne National Laboratory, Division of Educational Programs, Harold Myron, Ph.D., Division Director.