Question

What are sex hormones? Why are they named so? State their function. [3 MARKS]

Answer 1

Each point: 1 Mark
1. Sex hormones are the hormones that control the development of secondary sexual characteristics and also regulate the proper functioning of the sex organs. They are named so because they are produced in both males and females by the respective sex organs under the influence of the pituitary gland.
2. Functions of Testosterone: This hormone secreted by the testes brings about secondary sex characters in boys such as the growth of a beard, the voice becoming hoarse, development of reproductive organs, etc.
3. Functions of Oestrogen: This hormone secreted by the ovaries is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characters in females such as the enlargement of breasts, development of female reproductive organs, etc.