Gel Electrophoresis

Gel electrophoresis is a way of visualizing how DNA has been cut up by separating DNA fragments according to their size.

The process uses some basic properties of DNA and of the gel setup.

Match the five bullet pointed statements with a reason from the second column and an outcome from the third column.

Rewrite the sentences

The porous agarose gel is used.

because they can conduct electricity

so DNA will move on the agarose gel

Buffer solutions containing ions are used.

Because they move through the pores less easily

so DNA will move on the agarose gel

DNA is negatively charged

because they move through the pores more easily.

so they travel the shortest distance.

Smaller fragments move faster

because it allows the DNA to move through the pores.

so DNA will move towards a positive electrode

Larger fragments move more slowly

because of the phosphate groups in the backbone

so they travel the furthest