Final answer:
Homologous chromosomes possess the same genes in the same order, but may have different alleles. Prior to meiosis I, homologous chromosomes replicate and synapse, aligning like genes on the homologs with each other. Recombination or crossover occurs, where segments of genetic material are exchanged.
Step-by-step explanation:
Homologous chromosomes possess the same genes in the same order, though the specific alleles of the gene can be different on each of the two chromosomes.
Prior to meiosis I, homologous chromosomes replicate and synapse, aligning like genes on the homologs with each other. These chromosomes then exchange segments of genetic material through a process called recombination or crossover.