DNA Gel Electrophoresis Quiz

What is the purpose of DNA gel electrophoresis?

• To amplify DNA fragments

• To allow us to separate and visualize fragments of DNA

• To change the structure of DNA

• To extract DNA from cells

What is agarose used for in DNA gel electrophoresis?

• As a catalyst to speed up the reaction

• As a preservative to keep the DNA stable

• As a sieving agent to separate DNA fragments based on size and/or charge

• As a coloring agent to visualize the DNA

From what is agarose, used in DNA gel electrophoresis, extracted?

• Brown algae

• Red algae

• Green algae

• Blue-green algae

Why is DNA negatively charged?

• Due to the sugar groups in the sugar-phosphate backbone

• Because it is attracted to the anode (+)

• Due to the presence of ions in the running buffer

• Because it is repelled by the cathode (-)

During gel electrophoresis, to which electrode is DNA attracted?

• Cathode (-)

• Anode (+)

• Neither, it remains in the center

• Both, it is not affected by the electric field

What is added to the running buffer in gel electrophoresis?

• DNA fragments

• Proteins

• Ions

• Sugars

Which DNA fragments move faster through the gel during electrophoresis?

• Larger (longer) fragments

• Smaller (shorter) fragments

• All fragments move at the same speed

• The speed of fragments does not depend on their size

What is the purpose of the wells in the gel electrophoresis apparatus?

• To hold the gel in place

• To provide a power source

• To load DNA samples

• To generate an electric current

In gel electrophoresis, towards which electrode do the negatively charged DNA molecules move?

• They do not move

• Towards the cathode

• Towards the anode

• Away from both electrodes

What is the purpose of the electrodes in DNA electrophoresis equipment?

• To cool down the equipment

• To provide a source of light

• To create an electric field

• To mix the DNA samples