Question

Sephadex G-50 excludes molecules of molecular weight greater than 30000. What is the predicted result if a protein mixture consisting of Albumin ( ) and Lysozyme ( ) is run through a Sephadex G-50 column?
(6) Lysozyme will elute from the column first because it is smaller than the exclusion size.
Albumin will elute from the column first because it is larger than the exclusion size.
Both Albumin and Lysozyme will elute from the column at the same time.
Only Lysozyme will elute; Albumin will not elute from the column at all, because it is trapped inside the beads.
Only Albumin will elute; Lysozyme will not elute from the column at all, because it is trapped inside the beads.

Ask by Wheeler Cook. in Australia
Mar 25,2025

Upstudy AI Solution

Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

Only Lysozyme will elute; Albumin will not elute from the column at all, because it is trapped inside the beads.

Solution

To analyze the situation with the Sephadex G-50 column and the protein mixture of Albumin and Lysozyme, we need to consider the molecular weights of the proteins in relation to the exclusion limit of the column.
  1. Exclusion Limit: Sephadex G-50 excludes molecules with a molecular weight greater than 30,000.
  2. Molecular Weights:
    • Albumin:
    • Lysozyme:
Now, let’s evaluate the elution behavior of each protein:
  • Lysozyme: Since its molecular weight (14,000) is less than the exclusion limit (30,000), Lysozyme will be able to pass through the beads and elute from the column.
  • Albumin: Its molecular weight (68,000) is greater than the exclusion limit (30,000). Therefore, Albumin will be excluded from passing through the beads and will not elute from the column.
Based on this analysis, the correct prediction is:
Only Lysozyme will elute; Albumin will not elute from the column at all, because it is trapped inside the beads.

Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor

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Beyond the Answer

If a protein mixture containing Albumin (Mr=68000) and Lysozyme (Mr=14000) is passed through a Sephadex G-50 column, Lysozyme will elute from the column first due to its smaller size, which allows it to pass through the pores of the gel. Conversely, Albumin, being larger than the exclusion limit, will not be able to enter the beads and will be excluded from elution, essentially being trapped and remaining in the column.
In practical applications, this technique is frequently utilized in biochemistry for separating proteins or other macromolecules based on size, making it essential in purification protocols. By understanding size exclusion chromatography, researchers can efficiently isolate desired proteins while removing smaller contaminants, ultimately contributing to high-quality research and product development in fields like pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.

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