Y Chromosome

Definition

The Y chromosome is one of the two sex chromosomes in humans. It's smaller than the X chromosome and carries fewer genes. Males have both an X and a Y chromosome, while females have two Xs.

Analogy

If you think about it like books again, consider the Y chromosome as a shorter novel with fewer chapters (genes) than its counterpart - the 'cookbook' or X-chromosome. This novel is unique because only males receive this book from their fathers.

Related terms

SRY Gene: This gene on the Y chromosome triggers male sexual development.

Sex Determination System: This system determines whether an organism will develop into a male or female based on its set of sex chromosomes.

Hemizygous Trait: A trait where there's only one allele present instead of two; for instance, all traits on the male’s single copy of his x or y-chromosome would be hemizygous.