True or false DNA moves through a gel because it is negatively charged and is attracted to the positive electrode.
Biology · Middle School · Mon Jan 18 2021
Answered on
True. During gel electrophoresis, DNA fragments are indeed separated based on their sizes as they move through a gel matrix under the influence of an electric field. DNA molecules are negatively charged due to their phosphate backbone, which contains negatively charged phosphate groups. When an electric field is applied, DNA fragments are attracted towards the positive electrode (also known as the anode) because opposite charges attract. Smaller DNA fragments move faster and travel farther through the gel than larger ones, allowing them to be separated and analyzed as distinct bands within the gel.