What term describes the classification of a person as male or female based on physical characteristics?

The term that describes the classification of a person as male or female based on physical characteristics is "sex." This term specifically refers to biological and physiological attributes such as chromosomes, hormone levels, and reproductive/sexual anatomy. Understanding this distinction is crucial in the study of human biology and societal norms.

While "gender" refers to the roles, behaviors, and identities that society constructs around being male or female, it does not solely address physical characteristics. "Race" points to categorization based on shared physical or social qualities, which is distinct from biological sex. "Identity" encompasses various aspects of how individuals perceive themselves and how they relate to society, which may include gender identity or sexual orientation, rather than biological classification. Thus, the most accurate term for the classification based on physical attributes is "sex."