DNA Electrophoresis Concepts

Front

What is DNA electrophoresis?

Back

A laboratory technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their size by applying an electric field to a gel matrix.

Front

What property of DNA does gel electrophoresis utilize for separation?

Back

Size.

Front

Why does DNA move towards the positive electrode in gel electrophoresis?

Back

DNA is negatively charged, so it is attracted to the positive end of the unit.

Front

What is the role of the agarose gel in DNA electrophoresis?

Back

The agarose gel acts as a medium that allows DNA fragments to move through it, separating them based on size.

Front

What can gel electrophoresis determine in a paternity test?

Back

It can compare the DNA profiles of a child and potential parents to determine biological relationships.

Front

What does a DNA banding pattern represent in gel electrophoresis?

Back

It represents the specific sizes of DNA fragments, which can be compared to known samples.

Front

What is the significance of matching DNA bands in a gel electrophoresis result?

Back

Matching bands indicate a genetic relationship between the samples being compared.

Front

What is the typical charge of DNA molecules?

Back

DNA molecules are negatively charged due to their phosphate backbone.

Front

How does the size of DNA fragments affect their movement in gel electrophoresis?

Back

Smaller DNA fragments move faster and further through the gel than larger fragments.

Front

What is the purpose of using a DNA ladder in gel electrophoresis?

Back

A DNA ladder serves as a size reference to estimate the sizes of unknown DNA fragments.