Which statement about human sexual development is true?
A) Absence of the X chromosome causes the embryonic gonads of mammals to produce androgens.
B) A gonad becomes an ovary as long as the individual has two X chromosomes.
C) A gonad becomes a testis if the individual has only one X chromosome.
D) The early embryo has the potential to develop into either a male or a female.
E) An individual with an XY genotype will always develop male secondary sex characteristics at puberty.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The early embryo has the potential to develop into either a male or a female, depending on the presence or absence of certain chromosomes and hormones. This is because both male and female reproductive systems develop from the same embryonic tissue.

Option A is not entirely correct as the absence of an X chromosome results in Turner syndrome, in which an affected individual usually has underdeveloped ovaries and may have infertility or other reproductive issues.

Option B is not entirely correct as other factors, such as the presence of the SRY gene, are also important in determining gonadal sex.

Option C is not entirely correct as typically an individual with one X chromosome and one Y chromosome will develop male secondary sex characteristics, but not always. Rarely, these individuals may have ambiguous genitalia or develop as females.

Option E is not entirely correct as various factors can affect the development of secondary sex characteristics, and intersex conditions and disorders of sexual development exist.

Which Statement About Human Sexual Development Is True