Core Practical 14

• What is the purpose of gel electrophoresis?

  To separate DNA fragments of different sizes
• What is used to cut DNA fragments in gel electrophoresis?

  Restriction endonuclease enzymes
• What medium is used in gel electrophoresis?

  Agarose gel
• Why does DNA move towards the anode in gel electrophoresis?

  Because DNA has a negative charge
• How do different sizes of DNA fragments affect their movement in gel electrophoresis?

  They move at different rates, creating bands
• What is the significance of the bands created in gel electrophoresis?

  They are used in DNA profiling
• What are the risks associated with gel electrophoresis?

  Significant risks with the practical process
• Why might students use a simulation instead of actual gel electrophoresis?

  Due to the risks and expensive equipment
• Where can students find a detailed explanation of gel electrophoresis?

  Video from Addgene
• What are the steps involved in gel electrophoresis?

  • Cut DNA with restriction endonuclease enzymes
  • Load DNA fragments into wells in agarose gel
  • Apply an electric current
  • DNA moves towards the anode due to negative charge
  • Different sizes move at different rates, creating bands