NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
Read the following statements regarding the separation and isolation of DNA fragments using gel electrophoresis: (a) DNA fragments are negatively charged molecules, hence they move towards the anode under an electric field. (b) The separated DNA fragments can be visualized after staining with ethidium bromide followed by exposure to visible light. (c) The smaller the size of the DNA fragment, the farther it moves thr
Options
- A(a), (b) and (c) only
- B(a), (c) and (d) only
- C(b), (c) and (d) only
- D(a) and (c) only
Correct answer
B. (a), (c) and (d) only
Step-by-step solution
Statement (a) is correct because DNA fragments have a negatively charged phosphate backbone, which causes them to move towards the positively charged anode under an electric field. Statement (b) is incorrect because the separated DNA fragments stained with ethidium bromide can only be visualized after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, not visible light. Statement (c) is correct because the agarose gel acts as a sieve, and smaller DNA fragments experience less resistance, allowing them to move farther and fast