ABSTRACT
Electrophoresis is the movement of charged particles through an electrolyte when exposed to an electric field. Electrophoresis literally means walking in an electric field. Negatively charged particles (anions) move to the anode, and positively charged particles (cations) move to the cathode. The speed of movement of ions in the electric field depends on the following factors: particle size and shape, net charge of the molecule, electric field strength, characteristics of carrier medium, and operating temperature. Polymer or acrylamide crosslinked with methylene bisacrylamide is used as a support medium. A thin slab of polyacrylamide, a glass plate, or a short column is used. The resolution is far better in this technique. The gel is mounted between two buffer chambers containing separate electrodes in most electrophoresis units so that the only electrical connection between the two chambers is through the gel.
