Question

what is the difference between sex - linked traits and autosomal traits in humans?
a. sex - linked traits only affect females, while autosomal traits affect both males and females.
b. sex - linked traits are passed on through the x and y chromosomes, while autosomal traits are passed on through the other 22 chromosomes.
c. sex - linked traits refer to genes that are on the x and y chromosomes, while autosomal traits refer to genes on all 23 chromosomes.
d. sex - linked traits can only be passed from fathers to sons, while autosomal traits can be passed on from both parents to offspring of any sex.

Explanation:

• Option A: Incorrect. Sex - linked traits can affect both males and females. For example, color - blindness (a sex - linked trait) can occur in both genders, though the inheritance patterns differ.
• Option B: Correct. Sex - linked traits are passed on through the X and Y chromosomes (the sex chromosomes). Autosomal traits are passed on through the other 22 pairs of chromosomes (autosomes).
• Option C: Incorrect. The definition is wrong. Sex - linked traits refer to genes on the X and Y chromosomes, while autosomal traits refer to genes on the 22 non - sex (autosomal) pairs of chromosomes (not all 23).
• Option D: Incorrect. Sex - linked traits can be passed in various ways. For example, X - linked recessive traits can be passed from mothers to sons and daughters (in a carrier state), and from fathers to daughters.

Answer:

B. Sex - linked traits are passed on through the X and Y chromosomes, while autosomal traits are passed on through the other 22 chromosomes.