Final answer:
A high voltage rate actually causes DNA fragments to move faster, not slower, across the gel during gel electrophoresis, making the statement False.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is false; a high voltage rate will actually cause DNA fragments to move faster across the gel in gel electrophoresis. Gel electrophoresis is a common laboratory method used to separate DNA fragments based on their size. DNA has a negative charge and will move towards the positive electrode when an electric field is applied. The velocity (v) of DNA migration through the gel matrix is directly proportional to the electric field strength (E), as per the equation v = qE/f (where q is the charge and f is the friction). Smaller DNA fragments move more quickly through the gel because they experience less friction.
Consequently, as the voltage increases, the electric field strength (E) also increases, resulting in an increased migration rate of the DNA fragments.