Final answer:
The gonads, which are the ovaries in females, are responsible for secreting sex hormones such as estrogen. Estrogen plays a key role in sexual development, reproductive function, and the menstrual cycle in females.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gonads, the general term for the primary reproductive organs, are responsible for the secretion of sex hormones in females. Specifically, the female gonads are the ovaries; they secrete the female sex hormone known as estrogen. In addition to estrogen, the ovaries also release eggs and secrete another hormone called progesterone. These hormones play a crucial role in sexual development, reproductive function, and the menstrual cycle.
The female reproductive system is composed of both internal and external organs, which include the vagina, uterus, fallopian (uterine) tubes, and the ovaries, among others. The ovaries are especially important as they produce haploid gametes called eggs (or oocytes), secrete sex hormones, and work in conjunction with the rest of the reproductive system to carry and potentially give birth to a fetus.