Females are less likely than males to show sex-linked disorders because females
A) have higher levels of estrogen.
B) do not inherit recessive genes.
C) have an additional X chromosome.
D) have higher levels of testosterone.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Females have two X chromosomes, so if they inherit a recessive gene for a disorder on one X chromosome, they may have a normal gene on the other X chromosome that can mask the effect of the recessive gene. Males, with only one X chromosome, do not have this potential backup, making them more likely to express X-linked disorders.

Females Are Less Likely Than Males to Show Sex-Linked Disorders