Question

Which statements accurately describe the relationship between ATP and the sodium-potassium pump? (Select 2)

A. ATP contains three phosphates.
B. ATP undergoes a phosphate loss, causing the pump to change shape and enabling the movement of sodium or potassium across the cell membrane.
C. ATP consists of two phosphates.
D. ATP is unnecessary for the transport of sodium and potassium across the cell membrane.

Answer 1

The sodium-potassium pump uses energy from ATP, which contains three phosphates, to transport ions across the cell membrane. Loss of a phosphate from ATP causes the pump to change shape, facilitating the movement of sodium and potassium.

Step-by-step explanation:

The sodium-potassium pump is crucial in maintaining the electrochemical gradient in cells by transporting sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) ions across the cell membrane. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) provides the energy necessary for the pump to function. The correct statements that describe the relationship between ATP and the sodium-potassium pump are:

• ATP contains three phosphates.
• ATP undergoes a phosphate loss, causing the pump to change shape and enabling the movement of sodium or potassium across the cell membrane.

ATP indeed has three phosphates (triphosphate), and it is hydrolyzed during the process of active transport, which releases energy. This energy causes a structural change in the pump that is essential for moving ions against their concentration gradients.