In which stage are the chromosomes long and thin?

When synapsis is complete all along the chromosome,the cells are said to have entered a stage of prophase $I$,where exchange of genetic material takes place between homologous chromosomes. The stage is called

If $n=16$ in a plant cell,then how many chromosomes are present in each cell in metaphase-$I$ of meiosis?

$A$ : Anaphase-$I$ is the actual phase of reduction in the number of chromosomes.
$R$ : Homologous chromosomes move to the opposite poles with both their chromatids.

In which of the following does $Meiosis$ $NOT$ occur?

Recombination of genes occurs at