#9: A DNA Sample

Most of us assume that DNA is microscopic. Every living thing has it, but there’s no way we can see it without a special microscope. Or so we thought until we saw this photo. This vial holds a clump of DNA, revealing what this incredible substance looks like to the human eye. 

So, how does this happen? DNA clumps together when it’s put into a mixture of salt and alcohol. DNA is naturally stringy, so you will see a white clump of stringy matter begin to form in the alcohol. DNA dissolves in water, so most of us assume that it can’t be seen. Thanks to a little chemistry, we can see DNA first-hand.