Question

The first step of the Na+/K+ pump's activity involves the binding of which of the following?

A) 3 Na+ to their binding site on the outside of the cell

B) 2 K+ to their binding site on the inside of the cell

C) 2 K+ to their binding site on the outside of the cell

D) 3 Na+ to their binding site on the inside of the cell

E) 3 Na+ and 2 K+ to their respective binding sites

Answer 1

The Na+/K+ pump begins its cycle with the binding of 3 sodium ions (Na+) to their specific intracellular binding sites on the pump, which is the first step in the active transport process that maintains cellular electrochemical gradients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first step of the Na+/K+ pump's activity involves the binding of which of the following? The correct answer is D) 3 Na+ to their binding site on the inside of the cell.

The sodium-potassium pump operates by moving three Na+ ions out of the cell and two K+ ions into the cell against their concentration gradients, a process that is essential for maintaining the electrochemical balance in cells. Initially, three sodium ions (Na+) bind to their specific sites on the pump's intracellular domain. This is followed by ATP hydrolysis, which provides the energy required for the pump to change shape and move the Na+ ions across the cell membrane.