Question

The net effect of the sodium-potassium pump is:

A) Maintaining a higher sodium concentration inside the cell.
B) Creating a chemical gradient for sodium ions.
C) Generating action potentials.
D) Pumping sodium out and potassium in to maintain cell function.

Answer 1

The sodium-potassium pump moves three Na+ ions out and two K+ ions in, maintaining cell function by creating a net negative charge inside the cell and establishing the resting potential needed for nerve impulse transmission.

Step-by-step explanation:

The net effect of the sodium-potassium pump is pumping sodium out and potassium in to maintain cell function. This active transport mechanism moves three sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell and two potassium ions (K+) into the cell against their concentration gradients, using energy from ATP.

Due to this action, the sodium-potassium pump generates a net negative charge inside the cell since more positive ions are moved out than are brought in. This helps to maintain an electrical gradient, or membrane potential, which is critical for the function of neurons and other cells. The pump is especially important in establishing and maintaining the resting potential of neurons, thus enabling the generation of action potentials and proper nerve impulse transmission.