Y Chromosome
Definition
The Y chromosome is one of the two sex chromosomes in humans. It's typically found in males, who have one X and one Y chromosome.
Analogy
Think of the Y chromosome as a unique key that unlocks the male biological sex. Without this key (as in XX females), the lock remains closed and you get a female. But when you have this special key (the Y chromosome), it opens up to reveal a male!
Related terms
SRY Gene: This is a gene on the Y chromosome that triggers male development.
Sex Determination: The process by which an organism develops as a male or female.
Haploid Cells: These are cells with half the number of chromosomes (like sperm and egg cells) - they each contribute one set of chromosomes to form a new individual.
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