Final answer:
In metaphase I of meiosis, the homologous chromosomes, also called tetrads, are aligned along the metaphase plate.
Step-by-step explanation:
In metaphase I of meiosis, the homologous chromosomes (which are also termed tetrads) are aligned along the metaphase plate. Prophase I is the stage where the homologous chromosomes pair up and are linked together by the synaptonemal complex, forming tetrads. During metaphase I, spindle fibers attach to these paired homologous chromosomes, and the tetrads line up at the equator of the cell.
Each tetrad consists of two duplicated homologous chromosomes, or four chromatids, bound together by chiasmata. The orientation of each tetrad is independent of the orientation of the other tetrads, meaning there is an equal chance of a microtubule fiber encountering either a maternally or a paternally inherited chromosome.