Answer :
The sodium-potassium pump is a carrier protein that maintains an electrochemical gradient across the plasma membrane.
Explanation:
1. The sodium-potassium pump is a crucial protein found in the cell membrane that actively transports sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell and potassium ions (K+) into the cell.
2. This process requires energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) to pump ions against their concentration gradients. By doing so, the pump helps to establish and maintain an electrochemical gradient across the membrane.
3. An electrochemical gradient refers to the combined forces of the concentration gradient (difference in ion concentrations inside and outside the cell) and the electrical gradient (difference in charge across the membrane). This gradient is essential for various cellular processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and nutrient uptake.
Therefore, the sodium-potassium pump plays a vital role in maintaining the electrochemical gradient, which is necessary for proper cell function and communication.
Explanation:
1. The sodium-potassium pump is a crucial protein found in the cell membrane that actively transports sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell and potassium ions (K+) into the cell.
2. This process requires energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) to pump ions against their concentration gradients. By doing so, the pump helps to establish and maintain an electrochemical gradient across the membrane.
3. An electrochemical gradient refers to the combined forces of the concentration gradient (difference in ion concentrations inside and outside the cell) and the electrical gradient (difference in charge across the membrane). This gradient is essential for various cellular processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and nutrient uptake.
Therefore, the sodium-potassium pump plays a vital role in maintaining the electrochemical gradient, which is necessary for proper cell function and communication.
