Final answer:
The correct order for the operation of the sodium-potassium pump from top to bottom is: 1) bonding of 3 sodium ions and ATP, 2) ATP splitting and shape change, 3) sodium ions released externally, 4) the shape change for potassium bonding, 5) potassium ions released internally, 6) release of phosphate and return to original shape.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Sodium-Potassium Pump
The sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+ pump) is critical for maintaining the electrochemical gradient in cells. To order the events accurately from top to bottom:
- The sodium-potassium pump bonds 3 sodium ions and one molecule of ATP.
- ATP splits forming ADP, releasing energy and changing the shape of the channel.
- Sodium ions are moved through the channel and released into the extracellular environment.
- The channel’s shape changes allowing two potassium ions to bind to it.
- The potassium ions are released into the intracellular environment.
- The phosphate is released which causes the pump to return to its original shape.
These steps are part of a cycle that actively transports sodium and potassium ions across the cell membrane against their concentration gradients using energy from ATP. This process is crucial for various cellular functions, including nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction.