Question

When a DNA fragment is resolved by slab gel electrophoresis, a single sharp band is obtained. What is the equivalent observation had this fragment been fluorescently labeled and resolved by capillary electrophoresis?

Answer 1

When a DNA fragment is resolved by slab gel electrophoresis, a single sharp band is obtained. However, if the fragment was fluorescently labeled and resolved by capillary electrophoresis, each different size fragment would be detected as a separate peak.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a DNA fragment is resolved by slab gel electrophoresis, a single sharp band is obtained.

This is because gel electrophoresis separates DNA fragments by size, and the fragments with the same size will migrate together as a single band.

In contrast, if the DNA fragment was fluorescently labeled and resolved by capillary electrophoresis, each different size fragment would be detected as a separate peak.

This is because capillary electrophoresis utilizes a narrow tube (capillary) which allows for more precise separation and detection of DNA fragments.