What is the primary difference between sex-linked traits and autosomal traits in humans?

• A. Sex-linked traits are inherited only from the mother, while autosomal traits are inherited only from the father.
• B. Sex-linked traits are associated with genes located on the sex chromosomes, while autosomal traits are associated with genes on non-sex chromosomes.
• C. Sex-linked traits affect only males, while autosomal traits affect only females.
• D. Sex-linked traits are always dominant, while autosomal traits are always recessive.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of chromosomes: Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, where 22 pairs are autosomes and 1 pair are sex chromosomes (X and Y).
2. Define autosomal traits: These are traits determined by genes located on the autosomes, which are the non-sex chromosomes. Both males and females have these chromosomes in pairs.
3. Define sex-linked traits: These are traits determined by genes located on the sex chromosomes. In humans, these are primarily found on the X chromosome, as the Y chromosome carries fewer genes.
4. Recognize inheritance patterns: Autosomal traits can be inherited from either parent and affect both sexes equally. Sex-linked traits often show different patterns of inheritance, such as X-linked recessive traits being more common in males due to having only one X chromosome.
5. Clarify misconceptions: Sex-linked traits are not always dominant, nor do they affect only males. Autosomal traits are not always recessive, nor do they affect only females. Both types of traits can be dominant or recessive and affect both sexes.