2017 Biotechnology: Principles and ProcessesGel Electrophoresis Easy Question 4 of 5 in Gel Electrophoresis

What is the criterion for DNA fragments movement on agarose gel during gel electrophoresis?

A The larger the fragment size, the farther it moves
B The smaller the fragment size, the farther it moves
C Positively charged fragments move to farther end
D Negatively charged fragments do not move

The answer is B.

Solution

Smaller fragments migrate faster through the gel matrix.

During gel electrophoresis, DNA fragments separate (resolve) according to their size through the sieving effect provided by the agarose gel; smaller fragments move farther.

Concept gel-electrophoresis-size

Gel Electrophoresis in past papers

5 questions from this chapter have appeared across 5 exam years.