X-Chromosomes - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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X-chromosomes are a type of sex chromosome found in the cells of humans and many other organisms. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes in each cell, and one of these pairs determines biological sex. Females typically have two X-chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). The X-chromosome carries many genes that influence various traits and development. Understanding X-chromosomes is important for learning about inheritance, sex-linked characteristics, and some genetic disorders.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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