Lab 1. Flashcards
(32 cards)
What is the function of DNA?
It is the carrier of genetic information which can be passed on to future generation.
What is DNA replication?
The process by which DNA can copy itself so that genetic information can be passed to future generations.
What is DNA an instruction manual for?
It is an instruction manual for making proteins.
What is the function of proteins?
They are used in the maintenance and function of cells.
How does DNA provide the information that is used to build a protein?
It gives the order of amino acids which are the individual building blocks for proteins.
Who discovered the structure of the DNA molecule?
James Watson and Francis Crick.
What is the structure of the DNA?
A double helix that consists of 2 antiparallel strands that are joined together by 4 different types of base pairs.
How is the structure of DNA often described?
As a spiral ladder
What part of the DNA molecule makes up the sides of the ladder?
The two sugar-phosphate strands.
What part of the DNA molecule makes up the rungs of the ladder?
Each rung is composed of a pair of nitrogenous bases.
What are the 4 nitrogenous bases that make up the base pairs found within DNA?
Adenine (A).
Thymine (T).
Guanine (G).
Cytosine (C).
How do the 4 nitrogenous bases pair with each other to form base pairs?
A always pairs with T.
C always pairs with G.
What kind of bonds hold the base pairs together within the DNA molecule?
Hydrogen bonds.
How can DNA be extracted from the nucleus?
By adding an aqueous buffered extraction solution to cells.
How does the aqueous buffered extraction solution allow for the extraction of DNA from the cell?
The solution will chemically lyse the cell and the DNA will be released from the chromosomes.
What is the process of breaking open a cell to extract intracellular components known as?
Cell lysis.
Is DNA soluble in water?
Yes.
Why is the extracted DNA not placed in water after it has been extracted?
Because DNA is soluble in water and cannot be seen.
Why is the extracted DNA placed in alcohol after it has been extracted?
Because it is insoluble in alcohol and can be seen.
How is the extracted DNA purified after it has been extracted?
It is precipitated with alcohol and salt.
The amount of DNA that is spooled is a consequence of what?
It is a consequence of the size of the DNA fragments.
Is isopropyl alcohol less or more dense than water?
It is less dense than water.
How will the DNA solution and the isopropyl alcohol mix once they are placed together?
2 layers will be formed and the alchohol will be above the DNA solution.
What tool is used to separate the DNA strands from the solution?
A spooling rod.
