Final answer:
A cell in anaphase is characterized by chromosomes moving to opposite poles of the cell and spindle fibers attached to centromeres, as sister chromatids separate and are pulled to opposite ends.
Step-by-step explanation:
During anaphase of cell division, there are specific characteristics that can be observed:
- Sister chromatids connected – This is not observed in anaphase because the sister chromatids separate.
- Chromosomes moving to opposite poles of the cell – This is a key feature of anaphase.
- Spindle fibers attached to centromeres – Spindle fibers are indeed attached to centromeres, but they are responsible for pulling the chromatids apart.
- Chromosomes aligned along the cell equator – This occurs during metaphase, not anaphase.
Therefore, the correct characteristics of a cell in anaphase are that the sister chromatids are separated and move to opposite poles of the cell as spindle fibers shorten and pull them apart.