DNA Precipitation Why Low Temperature and Why Alcohol?

[dnamolecule]

Hey,

I am interested in why alcohol is used to precipitate DNA?

Also why is it conducted at low temperatures?

thanks to all who answer!

[kmunson779]

I'll start with pointing you to the [Only registered users see links. ].

Then say that, when you want to dissolve something, you generally add heat, so if you wanted to remove something from solution, it's logical you should take away heat.

However, there is evidence that the long incubation at cold temperatures is not necessary as long as you spin down the pellet hard and long enough.

ETA: Can't find reference. I'll have to bug the person who told me about it sometime.