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Why is there a pH difference between stacking and separating gel?
Posted July 31, 2024
Answer
The stacking gel and separating gel perform distinct roles in gel electrophoresis. Each gel is maintained at a pH that helps it perform its function more efficiently.
The stacking gel has a pH of 6.8. This lower pH environment is optimal for concentrating the sample into a narrow band before it enters the separating or resolving gel, which lies at the bottom of the electrophoresis chamber.
The separating gel has a pH of 8.8. This higher pH level is ideal for separating the protein molecules based on size and charge.