Question

In each cycle ,the sodium-potassium pumps transfer

• A. two potassium ions in & two sodium ions out
• B. one sodium ion out & one potassium ion in
• C. three sodium ions out & two potassium ions in
• D. three sodium ions in & two potassium ions out

Answer 1

The correct option is C three sodium ions out & two potassium ions in

The process of moving sodium and potassium ions across the cell membrance is an active transport process involving the hydrolysis of ATP to provide the necessary energy. It involves an enzyme referred to as Na+/K+-ATPase. This process is responsible for maintaining the large excess of Na+ outside the cell and the large excess of K+ ions on the inside. It accomplishes the transport of three Na+ to the outside of the cell and the transport of two K+ ions to the inside.