Understanding DNA Gel Electrophoresis

What is the primary purpose of using agarose gel in DNA electrophoresis?

• To increase the DNA's charge

• To separate DNA fragments by size

• To decrease the DNA's mobility

• To color the DNA for visibility

What is the significance of the electric field in gel electrophoresis?

• It separates DNA based on charge

• It visualizes the DNA

• It solidifies the agarose

• It heats the gel

What causes DNA to move towards the positive electrode in gel electrophoresis?

• Its positive charge

• Its negative charge

• Its neutral charge

• Its size

Why do smaller DNA fragments move faster through the gel?

• They are more dense

• They are positively charged

• They encounter fewer obstacles

• They are lighter

What determines the speed at which DNA fragments move through the gel?

• The charge of the DNA

• The color of the dye

• The temperature of the gel

• The size of the DNA fragments

What is the main component used to make DNA electrophoresis gels?

• Polyacrylamide

• Agarose

• Cellulose

• Gelatin

What is the purpose of the comb used in gel electrophoresis?

• To create wells in the gel

• To mix the DNA samples

• To apply the electric field

• To heat the gel

What is the purpose of adding a stain during the gel preparation?

• To alter the DNA structure

• To visualize the DNA after running the gel

• To slow down the DNA movement

• To identify the DNA

How long does it typically take for the gel to run in an electrophoresis experiment?

• 30 minutes

• 20 minutes

• 10 minutes

• 1 hour

What is the role of the running buffer in gel electrophoresis?

• To solidify the gel

• To cool the gel

• To stain the DNA

• To conduct electricity