Chromosomes that have a role in determining the sex of an individual

• A. Autosomes
• B. Sex Chromosomes
• C. Mitochondrial DNA
• D. Telomeres

Answer: (B)

Sex is determined by the chromosomes that carry the genes directing development of male or female characteristics. These are the sex chromosomes, the X and Y in humans. Having a Y chromosome (and the male-determining genes it carries) sets the pathway toward male development, while two X chromosomes steer development toward female. The other options don’t set sex: autosomes are non-sex chromosomes carrying many genes, mitochondrial DNA is inherited from the mother and doesn’t determine sex, and telomeres are simply protective ends of chromosomes with no role in sex determination.