Question

Why are ion channels necessary to transport ions into or out of a cell?

a) They prevent ion movement.
b) They regulate osmosis.
c) They facilitate passive transport.
d) They enhance active transport.

Answer 1

Ion channels are necessary to facilitate the passive transport of ions across the hydrophobic interior of the cell membrane, which is essential for maintaining ion concentration balance for cell functions. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: c) They facilitate passive transport.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ion channels are necessary for the transport of ions into or out of a cell because ions are charged particles and cannot diffuse through the hydrophobic interior of the cell membrane.

Ion channels facilitate passive transport by providing a pathway for these ions to move across the membrane down their electrochemical gradient.

This process is critical for maintaining the balance of ion concentrations inside and outside the cell, which is essential for various cell functions such as nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: c) They facilitate passive transport.

Answer 2

Ion channels are necessary to transport ions into or out of a cell because c) They facilitate passive transport.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ion channels play a crucial role in facilitating passive transport, allowing ions to move across the cell membrane without the expenditure of energy. Passive transport relies on the concentration gradient of ions, and ion channels provide a selective and efficient pathway for this movement. The movement of ions from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration is a fundamental process that helps maintain the electrochemical balance essential for cellular functions.

These channels are specific to certain ions, allowing only particular types of ions to pass through. This selectivity is due to the channel's structure, which includes specific binding sites for ions. The facilitation of passive transport by ion channels is vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis, as it enables the rapid and controlled movement of ions, contributing to the regulation of cell volume and the electrical potential across the cell membrane.

Furthermore, ion channels are not involved in preventing ion movement or regulating osmosis. Instead, they work in conjunction with active transport processes, enhancing the efficiency of these mechanisms. While active transport requires energy expenditure to move ions against their concentration gradient, ion channels aid in the overall transport process by allowing ions to move passively, complementing the cell's ability to regulate its internal environment.