Which phase in meiosis is characterized by the pairing of homologous chromosomes?

The phase in meiosis that is characterized by the pairing of homologous chromosomes is Prophase I. During this phase, homologous chromosomes come together in a process called synapsis, forming structures known as tetrads. This critical step facilitates genetic recombination through crossing over, where segments of DNA are exchanged between chromatids of homologous chromosomes. This exchange increases genetic diversity in the resulting gametes.

In contrast, the latter stages of meiosis—Metaphase II, Anaphase I, and Telophase II—do not involve the pairing of homologous chromosomes. Metaphase II is focused on the alignment of individual chromosomes along the equatorial plane of the cell, Anaphase I is characterized by the separation of homologous chromosomes to opposite poles, and Telophase II concludes the division of the sister chromatids into four distinct gametes.