The phenotypic sex depends most directly on

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The phenotypic sex, or physical appearance of an individual as male or female, depends most directly on the influence of hormones. Hormones such as testosterone and estrogen play a major role in the development of secondary sex characteristics like facial hair, breast tissue, and body hair, as well as the development and functioning of reproductive organs. The presence of a Y chromosome is necessary for male development, but ultimately it is the hormones produced by the testes that lead to male phenotypic characteristics. The number of active X chromosomes and development of the ovaries are more directly related to female development, but again, the ultimate phenotypic outcome depends on the influence of hormones. The degeneration of the Müllerian duct is a process that occurs during male development, but is not the primary determinant of phenotypic sex.

The Phenotypic Sex Depends Most Directly on