Final answer:
The goal of the lab is to separate restriction enzyme generated DNA fragments by size using agarose gel electrophoresis, where DNA bands are visualized and compared to a known DNA ladder.
Step-by-step explanation:
The experimental goal of this lab is to use an agarose gel electrophoresis to separate (by size) the restriction enzyme generated DNA fragments from the previous lab. This technique utilizes the gel matrix which acts as a sieve, allowing smaller DNA fragments to migrate faster towards the positive electrode than larger ones. Through this process, the fragments are separated by size, and their distribution pattern can be analyzed, serving as useful indicators of DNA sequence information.
During the procedure, the DNA sample is first loaded onto the agarose gel. An electric current forces the negatively charged DNA to migrate towards the positive end of the gel. The pore size of the agarose gel, determined by the agarose concentration, plays a crucial role in the separation process. After running the electrophoresis, DNA fragments are visualized using a DNA-specific fluorescent dye such as ethidium bromide. The resultant image features bands representing DNA molecules of varying lengths. The precise determination of DNA fragment sizes is often accomplished by comparing them to a DNA ladder consisting of known fragment lengths, which is run alongside the samples. Agarose gel electrophoresis is a fundamental technique for molecular biology studies and DNA analysis.