Final answer:
DNA and RNA, when placed in the same well for gel electrophoresis, will separate based on size as they are both negatively charged and move towards the positive electrode. They will form distinct bands with the smaller molecules traveling further. Supercoiled DNA may migrate farther than linear DNA or RNA.
Step-by-step explanation:
When both DNA and RNA are placed in the same well and subjected to gel electrophoresis, they will be separated based on size due to the negative charge they both carry. As an electric field is applied, both DNA and RNA will move towards the positive electrode since nucleic acids are negatively charged ions at neutral or basic pH. Due to differences in their molecular structures, DNA and RNA will separate into distinct bands on the gel. Typically, smaller molecules will travel faster and therefore further through the gel matrix than larger molecules. This means that if the DNA and RNA samples are of different sizes, they will form bands at different positions on the gel. If DNA is supercoiled, it may migrate farther in the gel than linearized DNA or RNA of a similar size. The agarose gel can separate DNA and RNA based on their size and shape, allowing for visualization after staining.
It is important to note that item 15 in the reference information provided is incorrect: DNA will be attracted to the positive electrode, not the negative one. Also, RNA interference, mentioned in item 16, is not related to the electrophoresis process.