What is the purpose of the buffer solution used in electrophoresis?

The buffer maintains a constant, suitable pH.

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How does electrophoresis separate DNA fragments of different sizes?

The gel's mesh inhibits larger DNA fragments more than smaller ones, causing these larger fragments to move more slowly.


The pore size of the gel mesh influences the speed of DNA movement.

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Why does DNA move during electrophoresis?

DNA moves through the gel towards the positively charged anode because DNA is negatively charged.

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Is DNA positively charged or negatively charged, and what gives it this charge?

DNA is negatively charged.


This negative charge is due to the phosphate groups in its sugar-phosphate backbone.

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What is gel electrophoresis?

Gel electrophoresis is a technique that is used to separate molecules such as DNA, RNA, or proteins based on size by using an electric current applied to a gel matrix.

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