Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Fingerprinting Virus DNA

First, we had to centrifuge the DNA for a better concentration. Then, we injected each virus into the gel casting tray after we put it in the solution. The point of the experiment is to determine what virus the unknown is. So far 3 viruses have affected Pennsylvania. Alabama, and Missouri.

Monday, November 12, 2012

DNA Extraction

We are using sterile water and protease to extract DNA. We scraped our cheeks with our teeth for 1 minute, then used the sterile water to swish it in our mouth for another minute. We inverted the tube, and saw chunks of something in the tube when the solution was added. Next we added protease and added it to the water bath for 10 minutes. This is my DNA.

Reproductive Organs Lab

We got a lesson in this lab of how cells become babies. Pretty interesting.

Photosynthesis and Chromatography Lab

In this lab, we tested leaves for photosynthesis. We also used the chromatography paper to show beta-carotene, xanthophylls, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b. it also revealed that plants repeal green light and grow better in white light.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Human Genetics

Today, we learned about recessive and dominant genes. We determined what traits we have, such as straight hairline, bent little finger etc.