Why is lamda DNA used as a marker in DNA gel elctrphoresis?

Lambda DNA is commonly used as a marker in DNA gel electrophoresis because it provides a reliable standard for estimating the size of DNA fragments. Its known sizes of restriction fragments allow researchers to create a standard curve for comparison. Additionally, lambda DNA can be easily cut with specific restriction enzymes, generating distinct and predictable band patterns on the gel, which aids in the visualization and identification of sample DNA sizes.