Question

DNA fragments are

• A. Negatively charged
• B. Neutral
• C. Positively charged
• D. Either positively or negatively charged depending on size

Hint:

DNA is always negatively charged because of the phosphate groups in its backbone, which makes it move toward the positive electrode in electrophoresis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the charge of DNA.
DNA molecules carry a negative charge due to the phosphate groups present in the backbone of the DNA.
This negative charge is crucial for many of the processes in molecular biology, such as gel electrophoresis, where DNA moves towards the positive electrode.
Step 2: Reviewing other options.
Neutral: DNA is not neutral; it is negatively charged due to the phosphate group.
Positively charged: DNA is not positively charged.
Either positively or negatively charged depending on size: DNA is always negatively charged, irrespective of its size.

Thus, the correct answer is (A) Negatively charged.