Agarose Gel Electrophoresis Quiz

What is the primary purpose of agarose gel electrophoresis?

• To separate proteins based on size

• To separate DNA or RNA based on charge

• To separate DNA or RNA based on size

• To amplify DNA

What factor primarily influences the movement of DNA through the agarose gel?

• The shape of the DNA

• The charge of the DNA

• The length (size) of the DNA

• The color of the DNA

Which of the following is used to stain DNA in agarose gel for visualization?

• Coomassie blue

• Bromophenol blue

• Ethidium bromide

• Silver nitrate

What is the purpose of adding a buffer solution during agarose gel electrophoresis?

• To provide a source of DNA

• To stabilize the pH and conduct electricity

• To increase the visibility of DNA

• To dissolve the agarose

What is the typical concentration of agarose used for separating large DNA fragments?

• 0.5% agarose

• 1% agarose

• 2% agarose

• 3% agarose

Which direction do DNA molecules move during agarose gel electrophoresis?

• From positive to negative

• From negative to positive

• They remain stationary

• It depends on the size of the DNA

Why does DNA migrate towards the positive electrode in agarose gel electrophoresis?

• Because DNA is positively charged

• Because DNA is negatively charged

• Because DNA is neutral

• Due to random movement of molecules

What is the role of loading dye in agarose gel electrophoresis?

• To stain DNA bands

• To help DNA sink into the wells and track progress

• To improve resolution of bands

• To increase conductivity

What happens if the agarose gel concentration is too high?

• Large DNA fragments will move faster

• DNA will not enter the gel

• Small DNA fragments will move slower

• DNA bands will not be visible

Which of the following can be used as an alternative to ethidium bromide for DNA staining?

• Methylene blue

• Xylene cyanol

• GelRed

• Crystal violet