Question

Gender of child is determined  by the male partner of couple. Explain with reasons whether this statement is true or false.

Answer 1

To determine the gender of a child, it is essential to understand the role of chromosomes contributed by both parents during fertilization.

1. A zygote is formed when a male sperm cell fertilizes a female egg cell. The male sperm has either an X or a Y chromosome, but the female egg always contains an X chromosome.
2. The combination of these chromosomes determines the child's sex. If the sperm contains an X chromosome, the developing zygote has the genotype XX and grows into a female. If the sperm contains a Y chromosome, the zygote will have the genotype XY, resulting in the formation of a male.
3. As a result, the male partner’s involvement is critical in deciding the child's gender. The female can only supply an X chromosome, whereas the male’s contribution of either an X or Y chromosome determines whether the child is a girl or a boy.
4. In summary, the male partner’s contribution of either an X or Y chromosome determines the gender of the offspring.
5. So, the above statement is true.