What differentiates analogous structures from homologous structures?

Analogous structures are defined by their function rather than their evolutionary origin. They typically arise in different species that adapt to similar environmental challenges or niches, even though they do not share a recent common ancestor. For example, the wings of insects and birds both serve the function of flight, but they evolved independently in these distinct groups. This functional similarity is what sets analogous structures apart from homologous structures, which share a similar evolutionary path and derived from a common ancestor but may serve different functions. Therefore, the focus on shared functions characterizes analogous structures effectively, validating that this is the correct response.