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Multiple Choice
What is the primary purpose of gel electrophoresis in molecular biology?
A
To synthesize new strands of DNA
B
To measure the concentration of proteins in a solution
C
To separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge
D
To amplify specific DNA sequences
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of gel electrophoresis: Gel electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate molecules such as DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge. It involves the use of an electric field applied to a gel matrix.
Recognize the primary purpose: The main goal of gel electrophoresis is to separate these molecules so they can be analyzed, identified, or purified for further experiments.
Clarify why it does not synthesize DNA: Synthesizing new strands of DNA is a function of processes like DNA replication or polymerase chain reaction (PCR), not gel electrophoresis.
Clarify why it does not measure protein concentration: Measuring protein concentration is typically done using techniques like spectrophotometry or Bradford assays, not gel electrophoresis.
Identify the correct answer: The correct purpose of gel electrophoresis is 'To separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge,' as this aligns with the technique's function in molecular biology.