What is the primary purpose of using a buffer solution in electrophoresis?
Practice Questions
Q1
What is the primary purpose of using a buffer solution in electrophoresis?
To increase the voltage
To maintain pH stability
To enhance sample concentration
To reduce sample size
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
What is the primary purpose of using a buffer solution in electrophoresis?
Step 1: Understand that electrophoresis is a technique used to separate charged particles, like DNA or proteins, based on their size and charge.
Step 2: Recognize that the movement of these charged particles is affected by the pH of the solution they are in.
Step 3: Learn that a buffer solution is a special type of solution that can resist changes in pH when acids or bases are added.
Step 4: Realize that maintaining a stable pH is important because it ensures that the charged particles move correctly during electrophoresis.
Step 5: Conclude that the primary purpose of using a buffer solution in electrophoresis is to keep the pH stable, allowing for proper migration of the charged species.
