Q.6 What are sex hormones? Why are they named so? State their function.

Sex hormones are chemical substances produced by primary sex organs thus affecting the development of secondary sexual characters and reproduction.

Testosterone is the male sex hormone produced by the testis and estrogen is the female sex hormone produced by the ovary. As they develop the sexual characteristics of an organism, hence they are known as sex hormones.

Testosterone:

This hormone develops secondary sexual characters in boys such as the growth of beard, hoarseness of the voice, development of secondary reproductive organs, etc. It also regulates bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass, strength and the production of red blood cells and sperm.

Estrogen:

This hormone develops secondary sexual characters in females such as the enlargement of breasts, development of female reproductive organs and pubic hair etc. It keeps cholesterol in control and protects bone health and also maintains the menstrual cycle and ovum production.