gel electrophoresis

Question 1

explain the first stage of gel electrophoresis

Answer 1

DNA fragments put into gel strips that contain buffer solution that maintains constant pH

Question 2

explain the second stage of gel electrophoresis

Answer 2

electric current is passed through electrophoresis plate
- DNA fragments in wells (negative end) move through gel towards positive end

Question 3

what does the rate of movement depend on?

Answer 3

mass / length of DNA fragments

Question 4

what do the mesh-like structures of the gel do?

Answer 4

make it easier for smaller fragments to move through (than larger ones)

Question 5

why does DNA move towards the positive anode?

Answer 5

DNA has negatively charged phosphate groups (opposites attract)