Gel Electrophoresis
DNA Fingerprinting Simulation
Explore how DNA fragments separate by size in gel electrophoresis. Load samples, run the gel, and analyze the DNA fingerprint patterns!
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Current Step:
Load DNA samples into the wells at the top of the gel.
The Science Behind Gel Electrophoresis
Key Concepts:
Gel electrophoresis separates DNA fragments by size using an electric current:
- Gel matrix (usually agarose) acts as a molecular sieve
- DNA is negatively charged and moves toward the positive electrode
- Smaller fragments move faster through the gel than larger ones
- DNA staining makes the bands visible under UV light
DNA Fingerprinting:
The pattern of DNA bands creates a unique fingerprint that can be used for identification, paternity testing, and forensic analysis.
