DNA analysis

5 important questions on DNA analysis

What happens at 55 degrees in the PCR reaction?

Annealing, primers hybridise to complementary sequences in the target DNA

What happens at 72 degrees in the PCR reaction?

Extension, Taq polymerase synthesises new complementary strands of DNA in a 5'-3' direction, starting from the annealed primers

Why does DNA move through the gel during PCR?

DNA is negatively charged (due to the phosphate groups) so it moves towards the positively charged anode
  • Higher grades + faster learning
  • Never study anything twice
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Discover Study Smart

Why do DNA molecules of different sizes separate out during PCR?

The rate of migration is dependent on size, smaller fragments migrate through the gel matrix more quickly than larger fragments

Why can you see the DNA under UV light?

The GelRed dye binds to the DNA and fluoresces under UV light

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo