Which skull features are commonly used to aid in sex estimation?

• A. Brow ridges
• B. Mastoid processes
• C. Brow ridges and mastoid processes
• D. Orbital shape

Answer: (C)

Sex estimation from the skull relies on traits that show consistent differences between males and females in adults. Brow ridges are typically more pronounced and rugged in males, while the mastoid processes tend to be larger and more robust in males as well. Evaluating both features together provides a stronger basis for inferring sex because they come from different areas of the skull and each shows a clear, population-wide difference. Orbital shape, while it can vary between individuals and populations, is less reliable as a standalone indicator due to greater variability. So, using both brow ridges and mastoid processes offers the most dependable evidence for sex estimation in skulls.