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LAB NOTEBOOK
Gel Electrophoresis

PREDICTION

Explain how comparing DNA fingerprints can help identify a person who has committed
a crime.

DATA

In the table below, record the estimated length in base pairs (bp) of the DNA fragments
found in the samples from the victim, the suspects, and the evidence. Estimate the
number of base pairs by comparing each band to the marker DNA bands.

Band Marker Victim DNA Suspect 1 Suspect 2 Evidence

DNA (bp) (bp) DNA (bp) DNA (bp) DNA (bp)

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ANALYZE AND CONCLUDE

1. Evaluate Does the DNA found on the hair match suspect 1 or suspect 2?

2. Analyze Why do a series of bands appear on the gel?

3. Identify Cause Why is the largest DNA fragment band found closest to the well in
which it was placed?

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4. Infer What is true of the DNA fragment band closest to the positive end of the gel?

5. Predict What would happen if the electrodes were plugged into the wrong outlets?

6. Apply Why is DNA fingerprinting more conclusive when proving a person's innocence

rather than their guilt?

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