Unlocking the secrets of life’s blueprint: Strawberry DNA Extraction Lab Worksheet Answer Key provides a comprehensive guide to unraveling the genetic mysteries hidden within the humble strawberry. This lab activity empowers students to embark on a captivating journey of scientific discovery, delving into the fundamental principles of DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis.
Through a step-by-step exploration, this worksheet empowers learners to extract, analyze, and interpret DNA, gaining invaluable insights into the molecular foundations of life. The meticulously crafted answer key ensures a thorough understanding of the experimental procedures and data analysis techniques, fostering a deep appreciation for the intricacies of molecular biology.
Strawberry DNA Extraction Lab: Strawberry Dna Extraction Lab Worksheet Answer Key
DNA extraction is a fundamental technique in molecular biology that allows scientists to isolate and analyze genetic material from various sources. This lab provides a step-by-step guide to extract DNA from strawberries, demonstrating the principles of DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis.
Materials
- Fresh strawberries
- Extraction buffer (containing detergent, salt, and Tris-EDTA buffer)
- Isopropanol
- Ethanol (70% and 100%)
- Mortar and pestle
- Microcentrifuge tubes
- Gel electrophoresis apparatus
- Agarose gel
- DNA ladder
- UV transilluminator
Procedure
- Mash strawberries in a mortar and pestle with extraction buffer.
- Centrifuge the mixture to separate the supernatant.
- Add isopropanol to the supernatant and centrifuge again.
- Wash the DNA pellet with 70% ethanol.
- Resuspend the DNA pellet in 100% ethanol.
Data Analysis
Analyze the extracted DNA using gel electrophoresis:
- Prepare an agarose gel and load the DNA samples.
- Run the gel and visualize the DNA bands under UV light.
- Compare the DNA bands to a DNA ladder to determine the size of the DNA fragments.
| Sample | DNA Concentration | DNA Fragment Size |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberry 1 | 100 ng/μL | 500 bp |
| Strawberry 2 | 80 ng/μL | 400 bp |
Discussion, Strawberry dna extraction lab worksheet answer key
DNA extraction involves lysing the cells, breaking down the cell membrane and nuclear envelope, and releasing the DNA. The extraction buffer contains a detergent that disrupts the cell membrane, salt that neutralizes the charges on the DNA, and Tris-EDTA buffer that protects the DNA from degradation.
Isopropanol precipitates the DNA, and ethanol washes away the impurities.
Gel electrophoresis separates the DNA fragments by size. The smaller DNA fragments migrate faster through the gel, while the larger fragments move slower. The DNA ladder provides a reference for determining the size of the DNA fragments in the samples.
Applications
DNA extraction is widely used in biotechnology and forensics:
- Biotechnology:DNA extraction is used in genetic engineering, DNA sequencing, and gene therapy.
- Forensics:DNA extraction is used in DNA profiling for identification and crime investigation.
Question & Answer Hub
What is the purpose of DNA extraction?
DNA extraction isolates DNA from cells for various purposes, including genetic analysis, medical diagnostics, and forensic investigations.
How does gel electrophoresis separate DNA fragments?
Gel electrophoresis utilizes an electric field to separate DNA fragments based on their size and charge, allowing for visualization and analysis of DNA profiles.
What are the applications of DNA extraction in biotechnology?
DNA extraction plays a crucial role in genetic engineering, gene therapy, and the development of diagnostic tools for genetic disorders.
