Final answer:
DNA moves toward the positive electrode in electrophoresis due to its negative charge. Smaller DNA fragments travel faster through the gel matrix.
Step-by-step explanation:
When subjected to electrophoresis, DNA moves towards the positive electrode because DNA has a negative charge. The phosphate backbone of DNA molecules gives them this negative charge. Therefore, during electrophoresis, DNA fragments will migrate towards the anode (often marked in red and associated with the positive charge) in an electric field. Smaller DNA fragments will travel faster and farther through the gel because they are less impeded by the gel's matrix.