Zuniga, Almira Lorinne J. 10- St.

Peter

Questions to Ponder:
1. Why do we squash or crush the banana fruit?
We squash or crush the banana fruit to split open the cells and release the DNA. This step makes the
DNA more accessible for extraction by breaking down the cell walls and increasing the surface area
on which the extraction solution can operate. Essentially, it helps us extract more DNA from the
fruit.

2. To extract DNA from cells, what must you isolate it from in the case of a plant such as a banana?
The DNA is contained within the nucleus of the cell. To release the DNA you will have to get through
three barriers—cell wall, plasma membrane and nuclear membrane.

3. Summarize the main steps involved in extracting DNA from bananas.

Start by mashing or crushing the banana. Mix the mashed banana with 2 tsp liquid detergent (such
as dish soap) and 4 tsp salt. Filter the mixture carefully through a sieve or strainer into a clear glass.
Add the chilled alcohol and allow for 8-10 minutes; it will produce a cloudy texture. Extract the DNA
with a wooden stirrer and lay it on a black surface.

4. What is the purpose of using salt, dishwashing liquid, and cold rubbing alcohol in extracting DNA
from the banana?
Salt causes DNA to clump together and become less soluble in water, facilitating precipitation from
the solution. Dishwashing liquid dissolves cell and nuclear membranes, releasing DNA from the cells.
While cold rubbing alcohol causes the DNA to clump and precipitate out of the solution, making it
easier to collect.
5. Describe the appearance of the DNA you extracted.
The extracted DNA appears as a cloudy or stringy substancefloating
. in the fluid like thin threads or clusters.

6. Do you think your results would be different if you were to use other kinds
of fruit or vegetables other than bananas? Explain.
Yes. the outcomes of DNA extraction might differ with various fruits or
vegetables due to their varying DNA quantities and qualities, as well as their
different cellular structures, all of which can impact the efficiency and
appearance of the extracted DNA.

7. If you planted banana DNA, could you grow a new banana?

No, planting banana DNA alone wouldn't result in the growth of a new banana
plant. You will need a living plant, such as a cutting or a seed, to grow a new
banana plant.

8. What is DNA used for when it is extracted?

DNA, once extracted, serves several important purposes. It helps scientists
understand how genes work and how traits are inherited in organisms. In
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medicine, extracted DNA allows doctors to diagnose genetic disorders and plan
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MATERIALS TO BE USED:
DISHWASHING 2 CLEAR GLASSES RUBBING
LIQUID ALCOHOL

SALT TOOTH PAPER TOWEL

PICK
ZIPLOCK
STRAINER
MEASURING BAG
CUP
BANANA

BLACK MEASURING
PAPER SPOON

PROCEDURES
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place it on a black surface, and the color of the
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