Question

What is the distinguishing characteristic of a P-type pump?

1) It must be pumped during the cycle.
2) It must be phosphorylated during the cycle.
3) It must be protonated during the cycle.
4) It must be deprotonated during the cycle.
5) It must be potassiumated during the cycle.

Answer 1

The characteristic feature of a P-type pump like the sodium-potassium pump is that it undergoes phosphorylation during its cycle, which is critical for its ion transport function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The distinguishing characteristic of a P-type pump, such as the sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+ pump), is that it must be phosphorylated during the cycle. This phosphorylation occurs when ATP is hydrolyzed, and one of its phosphate groups is transferred to the pump. This process leads to a conformational change in the pump that allows it to move ions across the cell membrane, typically against their concentration gradient. The energy derived from ATP hydrolysis is essential for this transport, as it maintains the proper concentration of ions inside and outside the cell, which is vital for cellular function.