Download Gel Electrophoresis Virtual Lab

Gel Electrophoresis Virtual Lab
Name__________________________
Period _________
Gel electrophoresis is the process of separating pieces of DNA by size using electrical currents. In this virtual
lab, you will learn the process of gel electrophoresis, and then run DNA samples through gel yourself.
First, go to the website http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/labs/gel/. Then, carefully read and follow the
instructions at the bottom of each screen. As you go through the lab, answer the questions below. Answers do
not need to be in complete sentences.
Introductory Questions:
1. In general, what does gel electrophoresis do?
2. What is the ‘gel’ in gel electrophoresis, and what does it do?
3. What is the ‘electrophoresis’ in gel electrophoresis, and what does it do?
4. Explain why pieces of DNA sort themselves in the gel.
5. After staining the gel, what can we see?
Virtual Lab Questions: (Running your gel)
1. What is the purpose of the buffer added to the agarose?
2. Summarize how agarose gel is made.
3. What is the purpose of putting the comb into the gel?
4. What does the buffer in the electrophoresis box do?
5. What is the purpose of adding the loading buffer to the DNA sample before injecting it into the gel?
6. Why is the DNA size standard used?
7. What does adding an electrical current do to the DNA? Why?
8. Why do we stain the gel containing our DNA samples?
9. What measurement can we make using gel electrophoresis?
10. Describe how gel electrophoresis can be used to convict suspects in criminal investigations?