Grade 12 Life Sciences Practical Task 1 DNA

Grade 12 Life Sciences Practical Task 1 DNA:

Title: DNA extraction

A grade 12 learner did an experiment to extract DNA from an onion.  He/she recorded the experiment in the pictures below.  Study the pictures and answer the questions that follow.

Grade 12 Life Sciences Practical Task 1 DNA: Questions

1. Follow the “instructions” as in the picture and perform the investigation.  See if you get the same result as the learner. (13)
2. What is the aim of the experiment? (2)
3. Explain the purpose of each of the following components of the experiment:
   • soap solution
   • pot of warm water
   • filtration
   •  alcohol
4. This learner used meat tenderiser. Suggest a reason for this step. (5)
5. Which other materials may be used in place of the onion to produce the DNA? Give a reason for your answer. (2)

Memo (Answers)