Question

Cells make use of electrochemical gradients in many ways. Which of the following proton transporters is used to regulate pH in animal cells?

A) ATP synthase
B) Sodium-potassium pump
C) Sodium-proton exchanger
D) Calcium pump

Answer 1

The correct option is C) Sodium-proton exchanger. The sodium-proton exchanger is the transporter used to regulate pH in animal cells, different from the sodium-potassium pump, which maintains the electrochemical gradient.

Step-by-step explanation:

The proton transporter used to regulate pH in animal cells is the sodium-proton exchanger. This transporter functions to eject protons (H+) from the cell in exchange for sodium ions (Na+), thus contributing to the maintenance of the intracellular pH.

While the sodium-potassium pump also moves ions across the cell membrane, its primary role is in maintaining the electrochemical gradient necessary for nerve function, not direct regulation of pH.