PCR and Gel Electrophoresis

Front

What is PCR?

Back

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify specific segments of DNA, creating millions of copies of a particular DNA sequence.

Front

What is the role of restriction enzymes in DNA manipulation?

Back

Restriction enzymes cut DNA into fragments at specific sequences, allowing for the analysis and manipulation of DNA.

Front

How many copies of DNA are produced after one cycle of PCR?

Back

2 copies.

Front

What is gel electrophoresis used for?

Back

Gel electrophoresis is used to separate DNA fragments based on their size, allowing for analysis and comparison.

Front

What force separates DNA fragments during gel electrophoresis?

Back

Electrical force.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-5

NGSS.HS-PS3-5

Front

Why do DNA fragments move towards the positive electrode in gel electrophoresis?

Back

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

Front

What is the function of a primer in PCR?

Back

Primers are short sequences of nucleotides that provide a starting point for DNA synthesis during PCR.

Front

What is the significance of the number of PCR cycles?

Back

The number of cycles determines how many copies of the target DNA are produced; each cycle doubles the amount of DNA.

Front

What is agarose gel made from?

Back

Agarose gel is made from agarose, a polysaccharide derived from seaweed, used to create a matrix for DNA separation.

Front

What is the purpose of loading dye in gel electrophoresis?

Back

Loading dye helps visualize the DNA samples and allows for tracking the progress of electrophoresis.