Which hormone is primarily responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males?

Prepare for the IGCSE Biology test on human reproduction. Study with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each including hints and explanations. Excel in your exam!

Testosterone is the primary hormone responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males. This includes traits such as increased muscle mass, a deeper voice, and facial and body hair growth that typically emerge during puberty.

Testosterone is produced mainly in the testes and stimulates the growth of the male reproductive system and the development of male-specific features. It plays a key role in regulating various physiological processes associated with male maturity and masculinity.

The other hormones mentioned, while they have important roles in the body, are not primarily responsible for the male secondary sexual characteristics. Estrogen, for example, is more commonly associated with female secondary sexual characteristics, while progesterone plays a significant role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy but does not influence male characteristics. Luteinizing hormone is involved in the endocrine system’s regulation of sex hormones but is not directly responsible for the characteristics themselves. Thus, testosterone is the hormone that best fits the role described in the question.

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