Science Fact of the Day: Hummingbirds can't walk.

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What does the word biotechnology mean?

Biotechnology is the technology used to study living things. Often times, biological substances (enzymes) or microorganisms (bacteria) are used in the process.

DNA molecules are cut into smaller fragments using restriction enzymes. Restriction enzymes are proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences of nucleotides.

DNA fragments can be separated by size through a process called gel electrophoresis. 1.A mixture of DNA fragments is placed at the end of a porous gel. 2.An electrical voltage is applied to the gel 3.The negatively charged DNA is pulled toward the positive end of the gel (opposites attract) 4.The smaller the DNA fragment, the faster and farther it moves 5.Results can be used to make a DNA fingerprint

DNA fingerprinting does not analyze the cell’s most important genes, rather it analyzes sections of DNA that have little or no known function but vary widely from one individual to another.

DNA samples can be obtained from blood, hair, urine, saliva, skin, semen, or vaginal secretions.

Virtual Gel Electrophoresis

Summarize what you have learned about biotechnology. (30 Words)