Why does DNA clump together in DNA extraction?

Answer 1

Single molecules of DNA are long and stringy. Each cell of your body contains six feet of DNA, but it's only one-millionth of an inch wide. To fit all of this DNA into your cells, it needs to be packed efficiently. To solve this problem, DNA twists tightly and clumps together inside cells. Even when you extract DNA from cells, it still clumps together, though not as much as it would inside the cell.

Answer 2

DNA clumps together during extraction due to its hydrophobic nature, which causes it to be attracted to other DNA molecules and stick together. Additionally, other organic molecules present in the extraction buffer can promote DNA precipitation and clumping.