The gel electrophoresis instrument is used to separate DNA fragments based on their size and charge using an electric field. The power supply is a critical component of the instrument because it provides the necessary electrical energy to drive the movement of the DNA fragments through the gel matrix.
During gel electrophoresis, the DNA fragments are loaded onto a gel matrix, which is then placed in a buffer solution. The power supply is connected to the gel apparatus, which applies a voltage to the buffer solution. The voltage creates an electric field that causes the negatively charged DNA fragments to move through the gel matrix towards the positive electrode.
Without a power supply, the electric field would not be established, and the DNA fragments would not be able to move through the gel matrix. Therefore, the power supply is essential for the separation of DNA fragments in gel electrophoresis.