What is true about X-linked disorders?

X-linked disorders are indeed characterized by mutations on the X chromosome, and they predominantly affect males due to the inheritance pattern associated with X-linked traits. Males have only one X chromosome (paired with a Y chromosome), meaning that if they inherit an X chromosome with a mutation, they will express the disorder. In contrast, females have two X chromosomes and are less likely to express the disorder unless they inherit two mutated X chromosomes. Additionally, females who inherit one mutated X chromosome are often carriers and may not display symptoms, but they can pass the mutation on to their offspring.

This pattern of inheritance explains why X-linked disorders almost always impact males. Conditions such as hemophilia and Duchenne muscular dystrophy exemplify this phenomenon, where affected males present symptoms while carrier females may remain asymptomatic.

Understanding this inheritance pattern clarifies why the other choices do not accurately describe X-linked disorders. While they may be relevant to discussions of genetics, they do not adhere to the specific mechanisms of inheritance characteristic of X-linked conditions.