In which phase of meiosis do chromosomes align in a single file along the metaphase plate?

In meiosis, the phase where chromosomes align in a single file along the metaphase plate is during Metaphase II. At this stage, sister chromatids that were previously separated during Meiosis I are lined up at the metaphase plate in preparation for anaphase. This alignment is crucial as it ensures that when the sister chromatids are pulled apart, each daughter cell will receive an equal and complete set of chromosomes.

During Prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over, but they do not align along the metaphase plate. Anaphase I involves the separation of homologous chromosomes, while Telophase I marks the end of the first meiotic division when the cells are split, and the chromosomes begin to de-condense. Thus, the specific alignment of chromosomes in a single file along the metaphase plate occurs distinctly in Metaphase II of meiosis.