Question

In an electrophoresis carried out at pH 1.0, does Valine migrate toward the cathode, migrate toward the anode, or not migrate at all? Explain briefly.

Answer 1

Answer:

Cathode

Explanation:

The isoelectric point of valine (pI) is 5.96

At this point, the amino acid, valine exists in zwitter ion form.

At pH = 1, which is a low pH than the isoelectric point (pH < pI) , the amine is protonated at this stage. So, the positive charge moves towards the negatively charged electrode which is cathode.