Gel - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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A gel is a jelly-like substance that is mostly made up of a liquid but has properties of a solid. It is formed when tiny particles in the liquid form a network that traps the liquid in place, giving it a firm shape. In biology, gels can be used in different experiments, like gel electrophoresis, where they help to separate and analyse DNA fragments. Because they can hold their shape while still being mostly liquid, gels are useful in many scientific applications and can also be found in everyday products like hair gel and jelly.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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