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Chapter 2: Problem 3

When an ovum and sperm meet at the moment of fertilization, the ovum provides an \(X\) chromosome, while the sperm provides either an \(X\) or a Y chromosome. If the sperm contributes its \(\mathrm{X}\) chromosome, the child will have an XX pairing and will be a girl. If the sperm contributes a Y chromosome, the result will be an XY pairing-a boy.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The sex of a child depends on the chromosome contributed by the sperm at fertilization. An X chromosome from the sperm results in a girl (XX), while a Y chromosome results in a boy (XY).

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Genetic Contribution

The ovum always provides an X chromosome, while the sperm can provide either an X or a Y chromosome. The chromosomal combination at the moment of fertilization determines the sex of the child.
02

Identify the Genetic Combination for a Girl

If the sperm provides an X chromosome at fertilization, it combines with the X chromosome from the ovum resulting in an XX combination. This results in a female child.
03

Identify the Genetic Combination for a Boy

If the sperm provides a Y chromosome at fertilization, it combines with the X chromosome from the ovum, resulting XY combination. This results in a male child.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The germinal stage (fertilization to two weeks) is marked by rapid cell division and specialization, and the attachment of the zygote to the wall of the uterus. During the embryonic stage (two to eight weeks), the ectoderm, the mesoderm, and the endoderm begin to grow and specialize. The fetal stage (eight weeks to birth) is characterized by a rapid increase in complexity and differentiation of the organs. The fetus becomes active, and most of its systems become operational.
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