Question

Where does DNA migrate to during sedimentation equilibrium centrifugation (aka density gradient centrifugation)?

1) Towards the bottom of the centrifuge tube
2) Towards the top of the centrifuge tube
3) It remains stationary in the middle of the centrifuge tube
4) It migrates to different positions depending on its density

Answer 1

DNA migrates to different positions depending on its density during sedimentation equilibrium centrifugation.

Step-by-step explanation:

During sedimentation equilibrium centrifugation, DNA migrates to different positions depending on its density. The DNA is loaded into a gradient, such as cesium chloride or sucrose, and spun at high speeds. The DNA will form a band according to its buoyant density, which is the density at which it floats within the gradient. DNA with higher density, such as DNA grown in 15N, will form a band at a higher density position in the centrifuge tube, while DNA with lower density, such as DNA grown in 14N, will form a band at a lower density position.