Which is an example of a primary sex characteristic?

• A. Ovaries
• B. Breasts
• C. Deepening voice
• D. Pubic hair

Answer: (A)

Primary sex characteristics are the reproductive organs and structures directly involved in reproduction. Ovaries fit this, as they are the female primary sex organs that produce eggs (ova) and hormones essential for reproduction. The other options are secondary sex characteristics—features that appear during puberty to signal sexual maturity but aren’t needed for reproduction themselves. Breasts develop due to hormonal changes and prepare the body for potential lactation, but they aren’t required to reproduce. A deeper voice arises from laryngeal changes during puberty and isn’t necessary for reproduction, and pubic hair is another puberty cue that doesn’t participate in the act of reproduction. Ovaries are the best example of a primary sex characteristic.