Question

Testosterone and estradiol are male and female sex hormones, respectively, in many vertebrates. In which of the following ways do these molecules differ from each other? A. They are cis-trans isomers but have the same molecular formula. B. They have different functional groups attached to the same carbon skeleton. C. They are enantiomers of the same organic molecule. D. They are structural isomers but have the same molecular formula.

Answer 1

Testosterone and estradiol differ by having different functional groups attached to the same carbon skeleton (Answer B), making them unique compounds with distinct roles in vertebrate biology.

Step-by-step explanation:

Testosterone and estradiol are both sex hormones derived from cholesterol and share structural similarities with it. However, they differ in their molecular structure. The correct answer to the question is B. They have different functional groups attached to the same carbon skeleton. While both testosterone and estradiol have the same molecular formula and are classified as steroid hormones, the difference lies in the type and position of functional groups attached to their carbon skeleton, which result in different physiological roles in the body.