142. Extracting DNA from bananas

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Indoor Game Reflection All
0 views | 50 minutes | 2 - 10 people

Physics-Chemistry Experiment


Activity details

Duration: 50 minutes

Participants: 2 - 10 people

Cost: $ 1

Age range: 7-25 years old

Equipments

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Goal:

Getting kids interested in biology through a fun experience

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Warning:

Requires a translator 

Steps

Explain to young people what DNA is, possibly using the introductory video

  1. Peel the banana and blend it with a teaspoon of salt
  2. Add 3 tablespoons of washing-up liquid, blend again
  3. Add 15 tablespoons of water, mix again,
  4. Strain the mixture and wait a few minutes to collect the extract. You can discard the contents of the filter or tea ball
  5. Fill a tube (or thin glass) with the previously filtered banana extract
  6. Add the denatured alcohol to this tube: as much alcohol as liquid banana extract. Banana extract and alcohol are not mixable, you need to observe two phases.
  7. Wait a few seconds: white balls will appear. This is DNA!

What did you learn from this experience? Or have you ever heard of DNA? What is this ? In what circumstances is it used?

#knowledge of your body

 

The main objective is to raise participants' awareness of the presence of DNA in living organisms, using a banana as an example.

Understand that DNA is present in the cells of all living organisms, including fruits like bananas. DNA is extracted using chemicals that break down cell membranes and release the DNA into a solution.

This activity aims to demystify the notion of DNA by making it tangible and accessible through a practical and interactive experience.

It also provides an opportunity to engage participants in a discussion about the role and applications of DNA in everyday life and in various scientific fields.

The human body is made up of many different types of cells, each with their own specialized functions. These cells are classified into different types such as blood cells, muscle cells, nerve cells, skin cells, etc. Each type of cell has a specific structure and function that allows it to contribute to the proper functioning of the body as a whole.

And this experience also allows you to:

  - Discover their prior knowledge about DNA.

  - Encourage reflection on the use and importance of DNA in different contexts, such as scientific research, forensics, agriculture, etc.

 

DNA is an extraordinary molecule which gives each living being its uniqueness and specificity. It is thanks to this genetic diversity that we can appreciate the beauty and complexity of life on earth.

 

Good advice: By your genetics, you are a unique living being, savor every precious minute of your life.


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