Final answer:
Homologous chromosomes pair in prophase I through a synaptonemal complex and cohesin proteins, align randomly during metaphase I, and may form cruciform structures during pairing if there is a pericentric inversion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The homologous chromosomes are paired during prophase I of meiosis. They are held together by a protein lattice called the synaptonemal complex and by cohesin proteins at the centromere. During metaphase I, homologous chromosomes align at the cell's equator with kinetochores facing opposite poles, and the orientation is random, which is crucial for genetic diversity.
If a pericentric inversion occurs in one of the homologs, the homologous chromosomes would assume a cruciform structure to pair accurately along their lengths during meiosis, ensuring proper recombination and segregation of genetic material.