Final answer:
Estrogens are the primary sex hormones in females, which aid in the development of secondary sexual characteristics, while androgens like testosterone are the primary sex hormones in males, responsible for the development of male genitalia and secondary characteristics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Estrogens are the class of sex hormones that are predominant in females; androgens, such as testosterone and androstenedione, are the class of sex hormones that are predominant in males.
Sex hormones are a group of steroid hormones secreted by the gonads, placenta, and adrenal glands. For males, androgens like testosterone play a crucial role in the development of the male genital organs, sperm production, and other secondary sexual characteristics such as facial hair and muscle strength. In females, the primary sex hormones are progesterone and estrogens. Progesterone prepares and maintains the uterus for pregnancy, while estrogens are vital for developing secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and fat distribution in key areas like the breasts, buttocks, and thighs. Although both genders produce both androgens and estrogens, they do so in different quantities that influence their respective reproductive systems and secondary sexual characteristics.