Which of the following are the primary hormones responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics in girls during puberty?

• A. Testosterone and insulin
• B. Thyroxine and cortisol
• C. Estrogen and progesterone
• D. Adrenaline and glucagon

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of secondary sexual characteristics: These are physical changes that occur during puberty, distinguishing males from females, such as breast development, widening of hips, and changes in body hair distribution.
2. Identify the role of hormones in puberty: Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate various physiological processes, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
3. Focus on the hormones responsible for female puberty: Estrogen and progesterone are the primary hormones that drive the development of secondary sexual characteristics in girls. Estrogen promotes breast development, fat distribution, and the maturation of reproductive organs, while progesterone plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting reproductive functions.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Testosterone is primarily associated with male secondary sexual characteristics. Insulin regulates blood sugar levels, thyroxine controls metabolism, cortisol is a stress hormone, adrenaline is involved in the fight-or-flight response, and glucagon regulates blood sugar levels. None of these are directly responsible for female secondary sexual characteristics.
5. Conclude that estrogen and progesterone are the correct answer: These hormones are essential for the physical changes observed in girls during puberty, making them the primary hormones responsible for secondary sexual characteristics.