Which sex chromosomes do males typically possess?

Study for the WJEC Biology Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, hints and explanations included. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Males typically possess XY sex chromosomes. This combination defines male genetic characteristics in organisms that use the XY sex-determination system, which is prevalent in humans and many other species. The X chromosome carries a variety of genes, some of which are involved in sex differentiation, while the Y chromosome carries genes that are crucial for male development, including the SRY gene that triggers the formation of male reproductive organs. As a result, the presence of the Y chromosome, alongside the X chromosome, is what characteristically identifies a male organism. Options like XX would indicate a female, while YY and XZ are not standard combinations recognized in this chromosomal framework for males.

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