Question

what is the difference between sex - linked traits and autosomal traits in humans? a. 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. b. sex - linked traits only affect females, while autosomal traits affect both males and females. 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 are passed on through the x and y chromosomes, while autosomal traits are passed on through the other 22 chromosomes.

Explanation:

• Option A: Sex - linked traits (e.g., X - linked recessive) can be passed from mothers to sons (e.g., color blindness), so this is incorrect.
• Option B: Sex - linked traits can affect both males and females (e.g., X - linked dominant traits can affect females), so this is incorrect.
• Option C: Autosomal traits refer to genes on the 22 autosomes, not all 23 chromosomes (the 23rd pair is sex chromosomes), so this is incorrect.
• Option D: Sex - linked traits are associated with the X and Y (sex) chromosomes, and autosomal traits are associated with the 22 non - sex (autosomal) chromosomes. This correctly describes the difference.

Answer:

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