Question

Clitoris in mammals is:
(A) Homologous to penis
(B) Analogous to penis
(C) Functional penis in female
(D) Non-functional penis in female

Answer 1

One of the most sensitive erogenous zones in a female is the clitoris. Clitoris is a round or oval shaped outgrowth that is enclosed by the clitoral hood. It is located about cm above the urethral opening. Clitoris is developed from the genital tubercle. In male, the genital tubercle is differentiated into a penis, whereas in females into a clitoris.

Complete explanation
Option A Homologous to penis: Homologous organs are similar in structural origin but differ in their functions. Both the penis in males and clitoris in females is developed from genital tubercle. Therefore, the clitoris in mammals is homologous to penis.
So, option A is correct.
Option B Analogous to penis: Analogous organs differ in structure but perform similar functions. Clitoris and penis do not differ in their origin and do not perform similar functions. Thus, the clitoris in mammals is not analogous to penis.
Option B is not correct.
Option C Functional penis in female: The clitoris is an erogenous zone in females whereas the penis in males plays an important role in urino-genital system. Clitoris is not a functional penis in females.
Option C is not correct.
Option D Non-functional penis in female: The clitoris in female and penis in male perform different functions. It is not considered a non-functional penis in females.
Option D is not correct.

So, Option A is the correct answer.

Note:
It can be noted that the clitoris in females and penis in male have similar structural origin. Both are developed from the genital tubercle. This makes the clitoris a homologous organ to penis. The clitoris and penis have different functions. In female, clitoris is pleasurable sex organ. In males, penis has the urino-genital opening for the passage of urine and sperms.