Buffer solutions and electrophoresis in seperating amino acids

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the principles of gel electrophoresis, particularly focusing on the migration of charged species in an electrolytic cell context. Participants explore the implications of using electrolytic cells in the separation of amino acids.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants reference a Wikipedia article explaining that positively charged species migrate towards the cathode while negatively charged species move towards the anode in gel electrophoresis.
  • One participant expresses surprise at the use of electrolytic cells in electrophoresis, indicating a lack of prior knowledge on the topic.
  • A participant distinguishes between the terms "applied voltage" and "supplied voltage," suggesting a rough differentiation between electrolytic and electrochemical contexts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to share an understanding of the basic principles of electrophoresis, but there is no explicit consensus on the implications or nuances of the terminology used.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not delve into the specific mechanisms of amino acid separation or the conditions under which electrophoresis is performed, leaving some assumptions and definitions unaddressed.

Saba
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Homework Statement
Hi, I have posted the question, the answer to the question as well as the data needed for PI. My concern is why do they say anode is a positive terminal here? is anode always the positive terminal and cathode negative terminal in electrophorisis?

Thanks!
Relevant Equations
NA
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From Wikipedia article on Gel Electrophoresis:
"Species that are net positively charged will migrate towards the cathode which is negatively charged (because this is an electrolytic rather than galvanic cell), whereas species that are net negatively charged will migrate towards the positively charged anode."
 
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mjc123 said:
From Wikipedia article on Gel Electrophoresis:
"Species that are net positively charged will migrate towards the cathode which is negatively charged (because this is an electrolytic rather than galvanic cell), whereas species that are net negatively charged will migrate towards the positively charged anode."
ohh so they use electrolytic cells in electropherisis. I didn't know that thank you.
 
Saba said:
ohh so they use electrolytic cells in electropherisis. I didn't know that thank you.
A voltage is applied -> electrolytic
A voltage is supplied -> electrochemical

Roughly speaking.
 

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