Final answer:
The mysql_upgrade command fixes incompatibilities in MySQL tables when upgrading to a new server version, by updating system tables, repairing, and recreating indexes.
Step-by-step explanation:
When MySQL is upgraded, it's recommended to execute the mysql_upgrade command which checks for incompatibilities with the new server version. If the command finds tables with possible incompatibilities, it will fix the incompatibility rather than deleting the table, creating a backup, or simply displaying an error message. This process may include updating the system tables to new formats, performing table repair operations, or recreating indexes to ensure that they match the new MySQL version requirements.