Question

What are sex hormones? Why are they named so? State their function

Answer 1

Hormones that control the growth and development of secondary sexual characters are called as sex hormones. These hormones are produced in males and females under the influence of action of the pituitary gland.

Sex hormone in the male is testosterone and sex hormone in the female are oestrogens.

1. Testosterone: This hormone functions in male and brings about the growth and development of testes. This hormone is also responsible for the appearance of beard and hoarseness of voice.

2. Oestrogen: This hormone functions in female and is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characters, such as enlargement of breast and development of reproductive organs.