GizmosAnswerKey
Life ScienceGrade 9-11

DNA Analysis Answer Key

Use gel electrophoresis to analyze DNA fragments and solve a crime using DNA fingerprinting techniques.

Prior Knowledge Questions

Q1.What does DNA stand for?

Answer

DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid.

Q2.What are the four nitrogen bases found in DNA?

Answer

Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Guanine (G), and Cytosine (C).

Q3.What is gel electrophoresis used for?

Answer

Gel electrophoresis is used to separate DNA fragments by size using an electric current.

Activity A – Gel Electrophoresis

Q1.Which direction do DNA fragments move during electrophoresis?

Answer

DNA fragments move toward the positive electrode (anode) because DNA is negatively charged.

Q2.Do smaller or larger DNA fragments travel farther in the gel?

Answer

Smaller fragments travel farther because they move more easily through the gel matrix.

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