Final answer:
Anaphase of mitosis separates sister chromatids, while anaphase I of meiosis separates homologous chromosomes, leading to genetic diversity in gametes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Anaphase of mitosis separates sister chromatids, while anaphase I of meiosis separates homologous chromosomes. Anaphase is the third stage of mitosis and meiosis, and it is critical for ensuring that each new cell receives an appropriate set of genetic information.
During anaphase of mitosis, sister chromatids are pulled to opposite poles of the cell, ensuring identical genetic material in the resulting daughter cells.
In contrast, anaphase I of meiosis involves the separation of homologous chromosomes, leading to genetic diversity in the resultant haploid cells. The process continues in meiosis II, where sister chromatids separate during anaphase II, forming individual chromosomes once more and resulting in four genetically distinct gametes.