The electrophoresis apparatus creates an electrical field with positive and nega

Question

The electrophoresis apparatus creates an electrical field with positive and negative poles at the ends of the gel. DNA molecules are negatively charged. To which electrode pole of the electrophoresis field would you expect DNA to migrate? (+ or -)? Explain. What color represents the negative pole? After DNA samples are loaded into the sample wells, they are "forced" to move through the gel matrix. What size fragments (large vs. small) would you expect to move toward the opposite end of the gel most quickly? Explain. Which fragments (large vs. small) are expected to travel the shortest distance from the well? Explain. What can you assume is contained within each band? What would be a logical explanation as to why there is more than one band of DNA for each of the samples?

Explanation / Answer

1. DNA would travel to the positive electrode (or the cathode), as DNA is negatively charged and opposite charges attract. Electrically speaking, the positive cathode has an electron deficit and DNA has more electrons than it's neutral configuration should, and thus DNA moves to balance the electrons.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse T
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.