Final answer:
Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate DNA fragments of different sizes. Agarose is used to make the gel, and electric current is applied to move the DNA through the gel. The DNA is separated according to size, and the gel is stained to view the separated fragments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate DNA fragments of different sizes. The gel is made of a chemical called agarose, which is added to a buffer and heated. Once the gel has solidified, the DNA is loaded onto the gel and electric current is applied. The DNA, which has a net negative charge, moves from the negative electrode to the positive electrode. The smallest fragments will be farthest from the well (where the DNA was loaded), and the heavier molecular weight fragments will be closest to the well. The gel is then stained with a DNA-specific dye for viewing.