DNA Electrophoresis

DNA electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate DNA fragments based on size. A mixture of DNA molecules is loaded into a gel, usually made of agarose or polyacrylamide, and an electric current is applied. Because DNA is negatively charged, it moves towards the positive end of the gel. Smaller fragments move faster and travel farther through the gel matrix, while larger ones move more slowly. This creates a pattern of bands that can be visualized with special dyes, helping researchers analyze or compare DNA samples.