Based on molecular weights, which dye would you expect to move farthest in an electric field if migration were solely by size?

Based on molecular weights, which dye would you expect to move farthest in an electric field if migration were solely by size?

• A. Bromophenol Blue
• B. Xylene Cyanole
• C. Orange G
• D. None of the above

Answer: (C)

In gel electrophoresis, the gel matrix acts like a sieve: smaller molecules pass through the pores more easily, so they migrate farther in a given time when size is the only factor at play. Among the dyes listed, Orange G has the smallest molecular weight, so it would experience the least resistance moving through the gel and travel the farthest. The heavier dyes would face more hindrance and thus travel a shorter distance in the same run.

In gel electrophoresis, the gel matrix acts like a sieve: smaller molecules pass through the pores more easily, so they migrate farther in a given time when size is the only factor at play. Among the dyes listed, Orange G has the smallest molecular weight, so it would experience the least resistance moving through the gel and travel the farthest. The heavier dyes would face more hindrance and thus travel a shorter distance in the same run.