Electrophoresis — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Q: What is the formula for Electrophoresis?

The formula or notation for Electrophoresis is: v = μE; μ = q/(6πηr)

Formula / Notation	v = μE; μ = q/(6πηr)
Also Known As	Gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis (CE), SDS-PAGE, zone electrophoresis

What is Electrophoresis?

The migration of charged particles or molecules through a medium under the influence of an electric field. Widely used in biochemistry to separate DNA, RNA, and proteins by size. Gel electrophoresis uses agarose or polyacrylamide gels as the separation medium.

Formula & Notation

v = μE; μ = q/(6πηr)

Other Names / Synonyms: Gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis (CE), SDS-PAGE, zone electrophoresis

Properties & Characteristics

Electrophoresis is the movement of charged particles (ions, macromolecules, cells) through a medium under an applied electric field. Positively charged species migrate toward the cathode (−); negatively charged toward the anode (+). Separation depends on charge, size, and shape of the particles. Key types: gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE for proteins, agarose for DNA), capillary electrophoresis (CE), and isoelectric focusing (IEF). DNA migrates with size as all fragments are similarly charged.

Uses & Applications

Electrophoresis is used in: DNA fingerprinting (forensics, paternity testing), protein molecular weight determination (SDS-PAGE), DNA sequencing (capillary electrophoresis in next-generation sequencing), blood protein analysis (clinical serum protein electrophoresis), and food safety (identifying food adulterants).

Safety Information

Electrophoresis equipment operates at high voltages (up to thousands of volts in CE). Electrocution risk requires grounded equipment and proper insulation. Ethidium bromide used to stain DNA gels is a potent mutagen; alternatives (SYBR stains) are preferred. UV transilluminators used to visualise gels emit intense UV radiation.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Electrophoresis

Formula v = μE; μ = q/(6πηr)

Index All "E" terms

Synonyms Gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis (CE), SDS-PAGE, zone electrophoresis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Electrophoresis?

The migration of charged particles or molecules through a medium under the influence of an electric field. Widely used in biochemistry to separate DNA, RNA, and proteins by size. Gel electrophoresis uses agarose or polyacrylamide gels as the separation medium.

What is Electrophoresis used for?

Is Electrophoresis hazardous?

What is the formula for Electrophoresis?

More "E" Terms

Effective Collisions Effective Collisions E ≥ Ea (activation energy required) Effective Molality m_eff = i × m (van't Hoff factor) Effective Nuclear Charge Z_eff = Z − σ (Slater's rules) Efflorescence Hydrated salt losing water in air: M·nH₂O(s) → M·(n-x)H₂O(s) + xH₂O(g) Einsteinium Es Electrical Conductivity κ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c Electrochemical Cell Galvanic cell: ΔG = −nFE_cell; Electrolytic cell: ΔG = +nFE_applied Electrochemical Series Arranged by E° (standard reduction potential); SHE: E° = 0.00 V Electrochemistry E° cell = E° cathode − E° anode | ΔG° = −nFE° Electrochemistry Electrode

View all "E" terms →