A mixture of four proteins X, Y, Z and N is applied to a gel-filtration column. Given the information supplied, which will elute first? $\begin{array}{|c|c|}
\hline \text { Protein } & \text { Molecular Weight g/mol) } \
\hline X & 35,000 \
\hline Y & 26,000 \
\hline Z & 146,000 \
\hline \mathrm{N} & 26,000 \
\hline
\end{array}$
A) Z
B) Y and N elute together
C) X
D) cannot answer without information about the isoelectric point

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In gel-filtration chromatography, larger molecules elute first because they are less likely to enter the pores of the gel and thus travel a shorter path through the column. Protein Z, with the highest molecular weight of 146,000 g/mol, will elute first.

A Mixture of Four Proteins X, Y, Z and N