Question

In gel electrophoresis DNA fragments separate according to their charge

Hint:

Remember: DNA always moves toward the ANODE (positive electrode) because DNA is ACIDIC and NEGATIVE. Separation is based on SIZE.

Answer 1

Step 1: Since DNA fragments are negatively charged molecules, they all move towards the positive electrode (anode) during electrophoresis.
Step 2: Although the movement is driven by charge, the separation occurs according to their size (length).
Step 3: The agarose gel acts as a sieve; hence, smaller fragments move faster and farther than larger ones.