Final answer:
Long bones themselves do not directly indicate sex, but their size and morphology, particularly in relation to the pelvis, can give clues. Features like the subpubic angle and the shape of the pelvic brim are different in males and females, aiding in the estimation of sex.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about the features of long bones that can reveal sex. While the anatomy of a long bone such as the epiphyses, diaphysis, and epiphyseal plates are standard features, they don't directly reveal sex. However, certain measurements and morphological characteristics of long bones, especially the femur and the pelvis, can be used in anthropometry to estimate sex with a varying degree of accuracy. For example, features like the angle of the femoral neck and the robustness of the bones can provide clues. In a classroom setting, such as a college course on anatomy or anthropology, detailed study of these characteristics can offer insights into sexual dimorphism in the human skeleton.
Specifically, the pelvis has features that are markedly different between males and females, with the female pelvis typically having a wider subpubic angle, a broader pelvic inlet, and a more circular pelvic brim to accommodate childbirth. Conversely, the male pelvis tends to be narrower and more robust. When examining long bones, forensic anthropologists and biologists look for these types of differences to help determine sex, although it is important to note that there's a wide variation within sexes, and this method is not always definitive.