Question

The basis for the separation and resolution of DNA fragments on agarose gel electrophoresis is-
a. Charge on DNA
b. Size of the DNA fragments
c. Movement towards cathode
Choose the correct option.

• A. (a) only
• B. (a) and (c)
• C. (b) and (c)
• D. (a), (b) and (c)

Answer 1

The correct option is C (b) and (c)

Agarose gel electrophoresis is used to resolve DNA fragments on the basis of their molecular weight. Smaller fragments migrate faster than larger ones; the distance migrated on the gel varies inversely with the logarithm of the molecular weight.
The DNA fragments separate according to their size through sieving effect provided by the agarose gel.