Multiple Choice
Why does DNA move through an agarose gel during gel electrophoresis?
234
views
18. Biotechnology
Gel Electrophoresis
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the primary purpose of gel electrophoresis in molecular biology?
A
To synthesize proteins from mRNA templates
B
To separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge
C
To sequence the nucleotides of a DNA strand
D
To amplify specific DNA sequences
Verified step by step guidance1
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 applying an electric field to a gel matrix, causing molecules to migrate through the gel at different rates depending on their physical properties.
Recognize the primary purpose: The main goal of gel electrophoresis is to separate and analyze biomolecules, not to synthesize, sequence, or amplify them. This technique is particularly useful for visualizing the size of DNA fragments or proteins after they have been processed.
Compare the options provided: Evaluate each option in the context of gel electrophoresis. For example, synthesizing proteins from mRNA templates is a function of translation, sequencing nucleotides is done using methods like Sanger sequencing, and amplifying DNA sequences is achieved through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). None of these processes involve gel electrophoresis.
Focus on the correct answer: The correct answer is 'To separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge,' as this directly aligns with the purpose of gel electrophoresis.
Conclude with the importance of gel electrophoresis: Highlight that gel electrophoresis is a foundational technique in molecular biology, often used in conjunction with other methods to analyze genetic material or proteins for research, diagnostics, and biotechnology applications.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Gel Electrophoresis practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations